Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

Introduction

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy—a festive appetizer that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s my go-to for holiday gatherings, and it never fails to impress. The dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness, while the Parmesan and pecans bring a delicious, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cream cheese. Whether it’s for a family get-together or a holiday party, this cheese ball is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages!

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Mix It Up:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, Parmesan cheese, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until well blended and smooth.

1. Shape the Ball:

• Form the cheese mixture into a round ball. Use plastic wrap to help shape it evenly if desired.

1. Chill Time:

• Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. For the best results, leave it in the fridge overnight.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and unwrap. Pair with your favorite crackers or slices of bread for a delightful holiday treat.

1. Optional Garnish:

• For a festive touch, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans or powdered sugar to add extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8-10
• Calories per serving: ~160

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve

• With Crackers: Serve with a variety of crackers, such as whole-grain, water crackers, or even a hint of spice with peppered crackers.
• On Bread: Offer with slices of baguette, toasted crostini, or small pumpernickel rounds.
• With Fresh Fruit: Pair with apple or pear slices to add a fresh, sweet contrast.
• With Veggies: For a lighter option, serve with carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper slices.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Place alongside meats, cheeses, and fruits for a beautiful holiday board.

Additional Tips

1. Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to blend easily with the other ingredients.
2. Chop Cranberries and Pecans: Finely chop the cranberries and pecans for a smoother consistency in each bite.
3. Add Garnish Just Before Serving: If rolling in pecans or powdered sugar, add just before serving to maintain freshness.
4. Use a Plastic Wrap for Shaping: This helps in forming a smooth, even cheese ball with minimal mess.
5. Chill Overnight: For the best flavor, chill the cheese ball overnight to let the ingredients blend fully.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a hint of heat.
• Herbed Cheese Ball: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the mix for a fresh, herbal flavor.
• Bacon-Cranberry: Add 1/4 cup of crispy, crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist.
• Extra Nutty: Use a variety of nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pistachios instead of or in addition to pecans.
• Dried Fruit Mix: Substitute half of the cranberries with dried apricots or golden raisins for a different fruity touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Appetizer Table: Add to an appetizer spread with dips, veggies, and finger foods.
• Gift Idea: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap, place it in a small container, and gift it with a box of crackers for a thoughtful holiday gift.
• Holiday Charcuterie Board: Add to a charcuterie board with meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruit.
• Brunch Spread: Pair with bagels, muffins, and fruit for a brunch spread.
• Office Party Treat: Great for potlucks or office holiday parties where everyone can enjoy a little bit.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cheese ball by wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Prepping Ahead: Make the cheese ball up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge until serving.
• Avoid Freezing with Toppings: If adding chopped pecans or powdered sugar on the outside, do this after thawing, as freezing can make the toppings lose their texture.
• Serving After Freezing: Allow the cheese ball to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to make it easier to spread.

FAQ

1. Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated.
2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   Dried cranberries work best as they’re less watery and add a touch of sweetness.
3. How long can I store the cheese ball in the fridge?
   It can be stored for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
4. Can I freeze this cheese ball?
   Yes, you can freeze it, but add any exterior toppings (like pecans or powdered sugar) after thawing.
5. How can I make this recipe vegan?
   Use a dairy-free cream cheese and substitute vegan Parmesan or omit it.
6. Can I use different nuts?
   Absolutely! Try walnuts, almonds, or pistachios for a different nutty flavor.
7. Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?
   Yes, it’s optional and can be left out if preferred.
8. What can I serve this cheese ball with?
   Crackers, bread, fresh fruit, or veggie sticks all work well.
9. Can I add herbs or spices?
   Yes, fresh herbs like parsley or chives or spices like cayenne can be added for more flavor.
10. Can I make this without added sugar?
    Yes, omit the sugar or replace it with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is an easy yet elegant appetizer that brings the flavors of the holiday season to life. It’s versatile, delicious, and so easy to make ahead, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, potluck, or a festive party, this cheese ball is sure to be a hit. Serve it with crackers, fruit, or bread, and watch it disappear as guests savor the creamy, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite. This recipe is truly a holiday classic that will bring joy to your table year after year. Enjoy!

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