Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
This festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. It combines the tanginess of cream cheese with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 electric mixer or spatula
- 1 plastic wrap
- 1 serving platter
- 1 chopping board
- 1 knife
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup additional pecans for rolling
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Use an electric mixer or spatula to blend until smooth.
- Add the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a ball. Use plastic wrap to help form it tightly, and then refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up.
- Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the ball in the additional chopped pecans until it is fully coated.
- Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and serve with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggies.
- For best results, prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator.
Notes
You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator.
Feel free to customize the nuts or add herbs for additional flavor.
This cheese ball pairs well with a variety of dips and spreads, making it versatile for various occasions.