Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the ultimate holiday appetizer that combines creamy, tangy flavors with festive textures. Made with a blend of cream cheese and cheddar, this delicious cheese ball is studded with crunchy pecans and tart cranberries, making it a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try recipe:

It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 15 minutes of hands-on time.
This cheese ball can be made ahead, allowing for stress-free entertaining.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to various tastes with its sweet and savory flavors.
The combination of cranberries and pecans adds a festive touch, perfect for the holidays.
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
It pairs well with a variety of dippers, including crackers, pretzels, and veggies.
You can customize it with different nuts or dried fruits for a personal touch.
This easy cranberry pecan cheese ball recipe is versatile enough to serve year-round.

Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Gather these items:

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Crackers, pretzels, or vegetables for serving

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Stir in half of the chopped cranberries and pecans, reserving the rest for coating. Add parsley if using.
Step 4: Form the mixture into a ball, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm.
Step 5: Roll the chilled ball in the remaining cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Serve with crackers, fruit, or veggies.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: 5 Star Holiday Delight - Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Keep these in mind:

This cheese ball can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Try adding different nuts or dried fruits like walnuts or apricots for variation.
For a gluten-free cranberry pecan cheese spread, serve it with gluten-free crackers or fresh veggies.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

When it comes to serving this delightful cheese ball, consider these ideas:

Pair it with an assortment of crackers for a classic cheese platter.
Serve alongside sliced fruits such as apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
Include crunchy vegetables like celery and bell pepper strips for a healthy option.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

This cheese ball can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you have leftovers, simply re-chill and serve again. It’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick snack anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

What is a cranberry pecan cheese ball?

A Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a creamy cheese appetizer made primarily from cream cheese and cheddar, combined with chopped cranberries and pecans for added flavor and texture.

Can I make a cranberry pecan cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this cheese ball up to 48 hours in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cranberry pecan cheese ball?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, and allow the ball to chill adequately to maintain its shape during serving.

Variations of Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball You Can Try

Here are some fun variations you can try to keep things interesting:

Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Add a hint of spice with some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.
For a sweeter twist, incorporate a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
Make a no-bake cranberry pecan cheese ball for a summer gathering.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: 5 Star Holiday Delight - Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our appetizers category or try making Ciabatta with Oil as a side. You can also explore Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for a refreshing option.

Additionally, if you’re interested in the nutritional benefits of cranberries, you can read more about them here.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: 5 Star Holiday Delight

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Author: Michael
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a creamy and tangy holiday appetizer packed with festive flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Crackers, pretzels, or vegetables for serving

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Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in half of the chopped cranberries and pecans, reserving the rest for coating. Add parsley if using.
Form the mixture into a ball, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm.
Roll the chilled ball in the remaining cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Serve with crackers, fruit, or veggies.