Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls

Introduction

The holiday season is a time for gathering, sharing, and indulging in delicious food. One recipe that has quickly become a family favorite in our home is the Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls. The first time I made these, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared at our holiday gathering. The combination of creamy goat cheese and tangy cranberries, paired with the crunch of pecans, creates a delightful flavor explosion that everyone loves. My family raved about them, and they have since become a staple on our festive appetizer table. Whether served with crackers or enjoyed on their own, these cheese balls are sure to impress your guests.Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal preparation and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their creamy texture and festive flavors, these cheese balls are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
• Versatile: You can customize the toppings or serve them with various accompaniments like crackers, crostini, or pretzel sticks.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like goat cheese, cranberries, and nuts, these bites offer a delicious yet nutritious option for snacking.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the cranberries and parsley make these cheese balls visually appealing on any appetizer platter.

Ingredients

• 10 oz goat cheese
• 6 oz cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons honey (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 ½ cups diced pecans, divided
• 1 cup diced dried cranberries
• ½ cup minced fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Make the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the goat cheese, cream cheese, cinnamon, and honey until smooth and fluffy.
   • Fold in ½ cup of the diced pecans until well combined. Set the mixture aside.
2. Prepare the Coating:
   • Lay a sheet of parchment paper on your countertop.
   • In the center of the parchment, mix the remaining pecans, dried cranberries, and minced parsley.
3. Form the Cheese Balls:
   • Using a large cookie scoop or spoon, portion out rounds of the cheese mixture. Roll each round gently to form a ball.
   • Toss each cheese ball in the cranberry/pecan/parsley mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Repeat with the remaining cheese mixture.
4. Refrigerate:
   • Place the coated cheese balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate until firm for at least 30 minutes. You can prepare these up to two days in advance; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
5. Serve:
   • Just before serving, drizzle the cheese balls with honey if desired. Serve with crackers, crostini, or as a stand-alone bite with toothpicks or pretzel sticks.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 20 bite-sized balls
• Calories per Serving: About 80 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes (or up to two days)

How to Serve

• Serve as an appetizer at holiday parties.
• Pair with assorted crackers for a delightful snack.
• Offer alongside crostini for a crunchy contrast.
• Use pretzel sticks as fun serving utensils.
• Garnish with additional parsley or cranberries for added color.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: These cheese balls can be prepared up to two days in advance; just keep them refrigerated until serving.
2. Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or herbs based on your preference.
3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure both cheeses are at room temperature for easier mixing.
4. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter flavor profile, add more honey to taste.
5. Presentation Matters: Arrange the cheese balls on a festive platter for an eye-catching display.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different nuts?
   • Yes! Walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans if preferred.
2. What can I substitute for goat cheese?
   • Cream cheese can be used alone for a milder flavor if you don’t like goat cheese.
3. How long do these keep in the fridge?
   • They can last up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
4. Can I freeze these cheese balls?
   • Yes! You can freeze them before coating; just allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving.
5. What should I serve them with?
   • They pair well with crackers, fruit slices, crostini, or even vegetable sticks.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes! As long as you serve it with gluten-free crackers or snacks.
7. Can I add spices other than cinnamon?
   • Absolutely! Nutmeg or allspice would also complement the flavors nicely.
8. How do I make them spicier?
   • Add some cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture for heat.
9. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   • Dried cranberries work best for this recipe due to their sweetness and texture.
10. What’s a good drink pairing?
    • These cheese balls pair wonderfully with sparkling wine or cider during festive gatherings.

ConclusionCranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls are not only easy to make but also bring a delightful combination of flavors that embody the spirit of the holiday season. Their creamy texture combined with crunchy pecans and sweet cranberries makes them an irresistible treat that will have your guests coming back for more. With their beautiful presentation and versatile serving options, they are sure to become a go-to recipe for your holiday gatherings and beyond! So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with this festive appetizer that captures all the joy of the season!

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