Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of this cranberry pecan cream cheese ball! It’s like a party on a platter! I whip this up for every gathering, and it never fails to impress. Picture this: creamy, tangy cheese mixed with sweet dried cranberries and crunchy pecans, all wrapped up in a delightful ball that’s just begging to be spread on crackers. I remember the first time I brought this to a friend’s holiday party; it was gone in minutes! Everyone was raving about it, and I couldn’t help but smile as I watched them dive in. Trust me, you’ll want to make this cranberry pecan cream cheese ball your go-to appetizer for any occasion. It’s fun to make, easy to serve, and absolutely delicious—what’s not to love?
Ingredients List
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature for easy mixing
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese for that rich, tangy flavor
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped to release their sweetness
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped for that delightful crunch
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped for a fresh bite
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder to add depth
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder for extra flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon salt to enhance all those yummy flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for a hint of spice
How to Prepare the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball
Alright, let’s get down to the fun part—making this scrumptious cranberry pecan cream cheese ball! It’s super simple, and I promise, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, in a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Use a hand mixer or just a sturdy spatula to mix them until they’re well blended and creamy.
- Next, add in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and green onions. Then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic happens! Mix everything together until it’s all nicely combined.
- Now, it’s time to shape your cheese mixture! Scoop it out and form it into a ball. Don’t worry if it’s a bit sticky; that’s perfectly normal!
- Once shaped, wrap the cream cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap. This will help it hold its shape and chill perfectly.
- Now, here’s the hard part—place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld together and makes serving so much easier!
- When you’re ready to serve, simply unwrap it and place it on a pretty platter. Pair it with your favorite crackers or bread, and watch your guests devour it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a show-stopper! This cranberry pecan cream cheese ball always steals the spotlight at parties.
- Super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients—no cooking required!
- Perfectly creamy and crunchy, it offers a delightful contrast of textures that you can’t resist.
- Make it ahead of time! You can whip it up a day in advance, which is a lifesaver for busy hosts.
- Endless versatility—feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or nuts!
- Great for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, game day, or just a cozy night in.
- It’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a perfect appetizer for all your guests!
- Serves a crowd—this recipe yields 8 generous servings, so there’s plenty to go around!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cranberry pecan cream cheese ball turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some tips that have saved my bacon more than once:
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is really soft before mixing. It’ll make blending way easier and give you that smooth texture we’re all craving!
- Chill time is key: Don’t skip the refrigeration! Letting it chill for at least 2 hours helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes the ball easier to handle.
- Customize the crunch: If you want to switch things up, feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds. Just make sure to chop them up nice and small!
- Herbalicious: For an extra flavor boost, toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or dill. They add a lovely freshness that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess.
- Presentation matters: When serving, don’t hold back on the garnishes! A sprinkle of extra chopped cranberries or pecans on top makes it look even more inviting.
- Serving suggestions: Pair it with a variety of crackers—like savory or sweet—to cater to everyone’s taste buds. And don’t forget some fresh veggies for a colorful platter!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone with your delicious cranberry pecan cream cheese ball. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re anything like me, you love experimenting in the kitchen! This cranberry pecan cream cheese ball is a fantastic canvas for your creativity. Here are some fun variations to try that will keep your taste buds excited:
- Herb Infusion: Add a tablespoon of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives for a burst of flavor. They complement the creaminess beautifully and add a lovely touch of green.
- Nutty Alternatives: Swap out the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios! Each nut brings its own unique flavor and crunch, making it a whole new experience.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. It’s a fantastic way to spice things up at your next gathering!
- Fruit Twist: Incorporate some finely chopped fresh fruits like apples or pears for a refreshing twist. They add a nice crunch and a hint of natural sweetness that pairs well with the cheese.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top just before serving for a delightful contrast. The sweetness balances the savory flavors perfectly!
- Smoky Flavor: Try adding a tablespoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for a deliciously smoky flavor. It’s a game-changer!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of the cranberry pecan cream cheese ball. I can’t wait to hear what you come up with!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this cranberry pecan cream cheese ball! Each serving is not only delicious but also has some pretty decent stats that might surprise you. Here’s a breakdown of the typical values per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 5g
Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But trust me, with all that creamy, crunchy goodness, you won’t feel guilty indulging in this delightful appetizer. It’s the perfect party treat that’s both tasty and a bit satisfying! Enjoy!
FAQ Section
Can I make this cranberry pecan cream cheese ball a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend it! Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together even more, making it taste even better when you serve it.
What can I serve with the cranberry pecan cream cheese ball?
I love serving it with a variety of crackers, from plain to flavored ones. Fresh baguette slices or even crunchy veggies like celery and bell peppers are also fantastic options for dipping!
How long can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly!
Can I freeze the cream cheese ball?
Yes, you can! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and it should be good for up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What if I don’t have green onions?
No problem! If you’re out of green onions, you can use finely chopped chives or even omit them altogether. It’ll still be delicious!
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Sure! Just keep in mind that the texture may be a bit different, and you might miss out on some of that creamy richness. But it’ll still taste good!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The cranberry pecan cream cheese ball itself is gluten-free, but just make sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread if you need to accommodate gluten-free diets.
How can I make this more festive for the holidays?
Great question! You can add some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a seasonal touch. You could also decorate it with extra cranberries and pecans on top for a beautiful presentation!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover cranberry pecan cream cheese ball is super easy and helps keep that deliciousness intact! Here’s how to do it:
- Refrigeration: If you have any leftovers (which is quite the feat!), simply wrap the cream cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods!
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cream cheese ball! Wrap it securely in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. This way, it’ll keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
- No reheating needed: You don’t need to heat this beauty! It’s best served cold, so just let it chill and then bring it to the table. Pair it with your favorite crackers, and you’re good to go!
With these simple storage tips, you can enjoy your cranberry pecan cream cheese ball even after the party’s over. It’s like having a little treat waiting for you in the fridge!
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Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Enjoy
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious cranberry pecan cream cheese ball perfect for parties.
Ingredients
- 8 oz 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
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and cheddar cheese.
- Add cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Serve with crackers or bread.
Notes
- Can be made a day in advance.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Try adding herbs for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cranberry pecan cream cheese ball
