Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this cranberry pecan cheese ball! It’s like a party on a plate and always steals the show at gatherings. I remember the first time I made it for a holiday get-together; everyone went crazy over it! The creamy blend of soft cream cheese and sharp cheddar, along with the sweet tang of dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans, creates a flavor explosion that you just can’t resist. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up! You’ll want to have this cranberry pecan cheese ball on your appetizer table every time you entertain, trust me—it’s a total crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Gather these simple, yet delightful ingredients to create your delicious cranberry pecan cheese ball:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
These ingredients come together to give you that perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. Make sure your cream cheese is nice and soft before you start mixing—trust me, it makes the blending process so much easier!
How to Prepare Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Let’s get into the fun part—making this scrumptious cranberry pecan cheese ball! It’s super simple and comes together in no time. Here’s how you do it:
- First, grab a mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Use a fork or a spatula to mix them together until they’re nice and creamy.
- Next, add in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and salt. Mix everything together really well; you want those flavors to blend beautifully.
- Now, it’s time to form the mixture into a ball. I like to use my hands for this part—just make sure you have clean hands! Roll it gently until it’s nice and round.
- Wrap your cheese ball in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is crucial—it helps everything firm up and meld together.
- Once it’s chilled, take it out and, if you’d like, roll it in some additional chopped pecans to give it that extra crunch and a beautiful presentation.
- Finally, serve it up with your favorite crackers or veggies, and watch it disappear!
And there you have it! Your cranberry pecan cheese ball is ready to shine at your next gathering. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can whip this cheese ball up in just 15 minutes—perfect for when you’re short on time!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s ideal for prepping ahead of time; just chill it overnight for the best flavor.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans creates a taste sensation that’s hard to beat.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with everyone, making it perfect for all your vegetarian friends and family.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a party, holiday, or just a cozy get-together, this cheese ball is sure to impress and disappear quickly!
Tips for Success
Alright, my fellow cheese ball enthusiasts, let’s talk about how to make this cranberry pecan cheese ball even more fabulous! Here are my top tips for success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened and at room temperature before mixing. This helps create that smooth, creamy texture you want, making it easier to blend all the ingredients!
- Chill Time is Key: Don’t skimp on the chilling time! Letting it sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or even overnight) allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- Get Creative with Mix-Ins: Feel free to switch things up! You can add in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra pop of flavor, or even some spicy jalapeños for a kick. The options are endless!
- Nut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of pecans or just want to try something different, walnuts or almonds work great too! Just make sure to chop them up nicely so they mix well.
- Serving Suggestions: While crackers are classic, consider serving this cheese ball with sliced apples or pears for a lovely sweet-savory combo. Or, if you want to keep it lighter, fresh veggie sticks are a fantastic choice!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to crafting the ultimate cranberry pecan cheese ball that will wow your guests and keep them coming back for more!
Variations on Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Now, let’s get a little wild with this cranberry pecan cheese ball! There are so many fun ways to mix things up and make this recipe your own. Here are some tasty variations to consider:
- Nutty Switch-Up: Don’t feel limited to just pecans! Try using walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios for a unique twist. Each nut brings its own flavor and crunch!
- Spice It Up: If you’re in the mood for something a little different, add some spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a hint of warmth. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor profile!
- Fruit Fusion: Instead of cranberries, why not experiment with other dried fruits? Chopped apricots, figs, or even raisins can add a delightful sweetness and change the whole vibe of your cheese ball.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can brighten up the flavors beautifully. Try mixing in some chopped chives, dill, or parsley. It adds a fresh touch that’s simply irresistible!
- Cheese Variations: While I love the cream cheese and cheddar combo, feel free to swap in different cheeses. A blue cheese or goat cheese base can give an entirely new dimension of flavor!
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Mix and match to find your perfect combination, and enjoy making this cranberry pecan cheese ball uniquely yours!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to keep your delicious cranberry pecan cheese ball fresh and tasty! If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), here’s what you need to know:
- Storing Leftovers: Wrap any leftover cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from drying out in the fridge.
- Refrigeration: Your cheese ball can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep it covered to protect those incredible flavors!
- Serving After Chilling: When you’re ready to serve it again, you don’t need to do anything fancy. Just take it out of the fridge and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly. This makes it easy to scoop up with crackers or veggies!
- Freezing Option: If you want to make it ahead of time, you can freeze the cheese ball! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
With these simple storage tips, your cranberry pecan cheese ball will stay delicious and ready to impress anytime you need a quick appetizer!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s dive into the nutritional side of this delicious cranberry pecan cheese ball! Keep in mind that the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just an estimate. Here’s a general breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 5g
So, there you have it! This cheese ball is rich and creamy, making it a delightful addition to any gathering. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re counting those calories. Happy snacking!
FAQ About Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Can I make this cheese ball in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making your cranberry pecan cheese ball a day ahead. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully. Just wrap it up and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with this cheese ball?
You’ve got options! Crackers are a classic choice, but I also love serving it with sliced apples, fresh veggies, or even some crunchy breadsticks. It’s all about what you enjoy best!
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Sure, you can! Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, and it may not be as creamy. But hey, it’ll still be delicious, so don’t hesitate to make it work for your dietary needs!
How long does the cheese ball last in the fridge?
Your cranberry pecan cheese ball will keep in the refrigerator for about 5 days. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness. It won’t last long, though, as it’s sure to disappear quickly!
Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Yes, you can! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. Easy peasy!
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: 5 Irresistible Flavor Bombs
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious cranberry pecan cheese ball perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and cheddar cheese.
- Add cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into a ball.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Remove from the fridge and roll in additional chopped pecans if desired.
- Serve with crackers or vegetables.
Notes
- Chill overnight for best flavor.
- Can be made ahead of time.
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing and chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cranberry pecan cheese ball, cheese ball recipe, appetizer recipe
