Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls
These delightful cranberry pecan cheese balls are a perfect appetizer for holiday gatherings or any party. With a creamy cheese filling rolled in tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 rubber spatula
- 1 plastic wrap
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended and smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the cheese mixture, and stir until evenly incorporated.
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and chopped pecans, reserving a handful of each for later use.
- Using your hands, divide the cheese mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, ensuring they are compact.
- Roll each cheese ball in the reserved cranberries and pecans to coat the outside.
- Place the cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with plastic wrap. Cover them with additional plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
These cheese balls can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.
Serve with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for a complete appetizer.
Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add spices to customize the flavor to your liking.