Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

Name: Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans; 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Celebrate the season with this deliciously creamy Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball. Coated in a blend of sweet dried cranberries and crunchy pecans, this delectable appetizer is perfect for holiday gatherings and adds a festive touch to any cheese board. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit for a delightful addition to your holiday spread.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2025-10-27T07:28:55.427Z

This cheese ball is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual feast for your holiday table. The vibrant colors from the cranberries and the rich texture of the cheese come together beautifully, making it a centerpiece that’s sure to impress your guests.

The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

One of the highlights of holiday gatherings is the array of appetizers that set the stage for festive celebrations. The Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball stands out with its beautiful presentation and delightful flavors. Whether you're hosting a large party or an intimate family get-together, this cheese ball is an easy, crowd-pleasing option. Its visually appealing colors and textures enhance your festive table, making it not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.

Packed with both sweet and savory notes, this cheese ball is versatile enough to complement a range of accompaniments. Try serving it with an assortment of crackers, baguette slices, or fresh fruit. This dish invites creativity—pair it with a selection of cheeses or charcuterie, ensuring your guests have a delightful culinary experience that keeps them returning for more.

Tips for Preparation and Storage

Preparation is a breeze with our cheese ball recipe. The blend of cream cheese and cheddar provides a rich and creamy base, while the addition of cranberries and pecans adds delightful texture and flavor. If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, you can shape the cheese ball and roll it in the coatings a day in advance. Just remember to keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve, ensuring it stays firm and delicious.

Storage is simple too! If you have leftovers, wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed for up to five days. The flavors deepen over time, making it just as tasty on the second or third day. It’s a great way to impress guests with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy your time with loved ones.

Pairing Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Cheese Ball

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Coating

1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries

Mix all ingredients thoroughly and chill before serving.

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Form the Cheese Ball

Shape the cheese mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Coat the Cheese Ball

Once the cheese ball is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and roll it in the remaining chopped pecans and dried cranberries until evenly coated.

Serve

Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit.

Enjoy your festive cheese ball!

Nutritional Information

The Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball is not only delicious but can also provide nutritional benefits. Cream cheese offers a source of calcium while cheddar adds protein and additional calcium to the mix. Pecans are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, making this appetizer not just a guilty pleasure but a wholesome choice for your holiday spread.

Keep in mind that portion size is key, especially during holidays when indulgence is easy. Serving this cheese ball in bite-sized portions helps maintain balance during your festivities. Pair with fresh veggies or whole-grain crackers to enhance the healthiness of your snack while keeping your guests satisfied.

Customization Options

One of the standout features of this cheese ball recipe is its adaptability. While the base ingredients create a fantastic flavor profile, feel free to customize it to your taste preferences. Swap out the dried cranberries for apricots, figs, or even raisins for a different sweetness. Similarly, try mixing in herbs like chives or dill for an extra flavor kick.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese. For a more robust flavor, consider blue cheese or goat cheese mixed with cream cheese. The key is to balance flavors while ensuring the cheese ball remains creamy and easy to spread. Let your creativity shine while making this festive appetizer your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this cheese ball?

Crackers, pretzels, and fresh fruit pair beautifully with the cheese ball.