Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

There is nothing quite as enchanting as a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball set out on the table during a festive gathering. This creamy, sweet, and nutty appetizer blends tangy cream cheese with bursts of dried cranberries and the satisfying crunch of pecans, all kissed with a hint of cinnamon and Parmesan. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, hosting a cozy get-together, or simply looking for an excuse to indulge, this recipe is sure to become a crowd favorite and a cherished tradition in your home.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is how little effort it takes to create something so show-stopping. Every ingredient is carefully chosen to deliver luscious texture, lovely color, and irresistible flavor.

  • Cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing; the creamy base pulls all the flavors together like magic.
  • Dried cranberries: These ruby jewels add a chewy bite and pops of tart-sweetness that truly brighten the cheese ball.
  • Chopped pecans: Pecans provide a gentle, buttery crunch and pair so well with both savory and sweet elements.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a punch of umami and saltiness, rounding out the sweetness and elevating each bite.
  • Sugar: A touch of sweetness enhances the subtle tang of cream cheese and brings everything into balance.
  • Ground cinnamon: Just a pinch adds gentle warmth and a little festive nostalgia to the mix.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Step 1: Mix It Up

Start by gathering a large mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, grated Parmesan, sugar, and a whisper of cinnamon. Use a sturdy spoon or even an electric mixer, and blend everything together until the mixture is creamy and the cranberries and pecans are distributed evenly. This step is where the magic happens and the flavors start to mingle!

Step 2: Shape the Ball

Once the mixture is well combined, it’s time to coax it into that signature cheese ball shape. Using clean hands or a spatula, scoop the mixture and form it into a round ball. If things get sticky, plastic wrap can be your best ally—simply transfer the cheese mix onto a sheet of plastic, gather the edges, and gently mold it into a ball through the wrap for perfectly smooth results.

Step 3: Chill Time

Wrap your newly formed ball in plastic wrap and tuck it into the refrigerator. Letting your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball chill for at least 2 hours helps all the flavors blend together and makes it easier to slice and serve. If you can plan ahead, leaving it overnight is even better for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

When you’re ready to serve, simply unwrap your cheese ball and transfer it to a pretty platter. Surround it with crisp crackers, sliced baguette, or even apple slices. This is the moment when all your simple prep pays off—watch guests flock to the table and swoon after their first bite!

Step 5: Optional Garnish for Extra Flair

To really make your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball shine, consider rolling the outside in more chopped pecans or a snowy sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s a small extra step that adds big visual appeal and a little more crunch or sweetness, depending on your crowd’s preference.

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To elevate the visual impact and flavor, a simple garnish goes a long way. Gently roll your cheese ball in a layer of chopped pecans for texture or dust it with powdered sugar for a light, snowy effect. Sprinkles of extra dried cranberries or even a few fresh rosemary sprigs around the platter make for an inviting centerpiece.

Side Dishes

The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball shines brightest when paired with sturdy dippers: think crunchy water crackers, buttery Ritz, or thin slices of a rustic baguette. For something a little lighter, fresh apple or pear slices are a refreshing match for the creamy, nutty filling. Don’t be afraid to set out some crisp veggies like celery and carrots for extra crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Beyond the usual round ball, try shaping the cheese mix into a festive log or even a wreath for holiday fun! Arrange your side dippers in a sunburst around the cheese ball or place it inside a decorative bowl. For personal servings, make mini cheese balls and skewer each one with a pretzel stick—your guests will love these bite-sized delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball after your gathering (though it’s rare!), simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, making sneaky fridge snacks something to look forward to.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this cheese ball for later! Wrap it carefully in plastic wrap, then tuck it into a resealable freezer bag. It freezes well for up to a month. To serve, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator—just remember to add your garnish after thawing for the best texture.

Reheating

This is a no-bake, serve-chilled kind of treat, so reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. If your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball has been sitting out for a while, simply pop it back into the fridge until ready to enjoy again. It tastes best cold or at cool room temperature!

FAQs

Can I make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors more time to meld, resulting in an even tastier appetizer. Just keep it wrapped in the fridge until you’re ready to serve or garnish.

What can I use instead of pecans?

If pecans aren’t your favorite or you have allergies to consider, chopped walnuts or almonds work great. For a nut-free version, try toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added crunch without the nuts.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries are quite tart and juicy, so dried cranberries are preferred for their chewy texture and sweetness. If you’d like, soak dried cranberries in orange juice for a few minutes to plump them up and add a citrusy twist.

What kind of crackers pair best with this cheese ball?

Some of the best choices are sturdy, neutral-flavored crackers that let the cheese ball’s flavors shine. Water crackers, wheat thins, or thin crostini are crowd-pleasers, though feel free to offer a variety for your guests to enjoy!

Is the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball gluten free?

The cheese ball itself is naturally gluten free, but always check your cheese and other ingredients to be sure. To keep the whole dish gluten free, serve with GF crackers, cucumber slices, or sticks of bell pepper.

Final Thoughts

If you’re hoping to create a memorable appetizer that brings smiles and requests for seconds, the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is genuinely a must-make. Every bite delivers a whirlwind of creaminess, crunch, and fruity sweetness that’s both comforting and impressive. Give this recipe a try at your next event—you’ll soon see why it’s a personal favorite that guests remember long after the party’s over!

Print

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a delicious and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Creamy, sweet, and savory flavors come together in this easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress your guests.

  • Author: Maya Quinn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cheese ball 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Mixing, Chilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Ingredients:

  • 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, Parmesan cheese, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until well blended and smooth.
  2. Shape the Ball: Form the cheese mixture into a round ball. Use plastic wrap to help shape it evenly if desired.
  3. Chill Time: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. For the best results, leave it in the fridge overnight.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and unwrap. Pair with your favorite crackers or slices of bread for a delightful holiday treat.
  5. Optional Garnish: For a festive touch, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans or powdered sugar to add extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball, Holiday Appetizer, Festive Cheese Ball Recipe

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