Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball has become a staple in my holiday gatherings. This festive, creamy cheese ball combines sharp cheddar, cream cheese, dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans, creating a delightful appetizer that is both sweet and savory. Perfect for any celebration, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

There are countless reasons to adore this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball. First, it’s a no-bake recipe, making it incredibly easy to whip up before any event. Second, its sweet and savory profile appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it an ideal choice for parties. Third, the crunchy pecans add a satisfying texture. Fourth, it can be made a few days in advance, saving you time on the day of the gathering. Fifth, it’s versatile; you can serve it with crackers, fruits, or vegetables. Lastly, it’s a visually appealing dish that elevates any holiday cheese platter.

Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Gather these items:

16 oz (452g) full-fat brick-style cream cheese, softened
1 3/4 cups (175g) shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, divided
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon light or dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup (108g) finely chopped dried cranberries, divided
3/4 cup (100g) finely chopped pecans, divided

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

Step 1: Soften cream cheese to room temperature.
Step 2: In a stand mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
Step 3: Add shredded cheddar, 1 tbsp chives, parsley, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the cranberries and pecans. Mix until fully combined.
Step 4: Form the mixture into a ball using hands or a spatula. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 5 days).
Step 5: In a bowl, combine remaining chives, cranberries, and pecans to make the coating.
Step 6: Unwrap chilled cheese ball and roll it in the coating, pressing lightly to adhere.
Step 7: Serve immediately or wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. Let sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
Customize the coating with additional herbs or spices for a unique flavor twist.
This dish can be made gluten-free by pairing it with gluten-free crackers.
Consider adding a splash of orange juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Delicious Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball for Gatherings - Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

There are several delightful ways to serve this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball. Pair it with an assortment of crackers for a simple yet elegant presentation. You can also include fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes for a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial option, serve it alongside a creamy dip, such as a Creamy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Dip, to offer guests more variety.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

To store your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It can last up to 5 days in the fridge. For optimal flavor, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it later.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients. Fresh herbs and quality cheeses enhance the flavor significantly. Make sure to balance the sweetness of the cranberries with the savory notes of the cheese.

Can I make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheese ball can be made up to 5 days in advance. Just prepare it, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball?

To avoid mistakes, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the ingredients, as this can make the cheese ball too soft.

Variations of Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball You Can Try

For those looking to mix things up, consider these variations: try adding chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic flavor. You can also swap out pecans for walnuts for a different nutty taste. If you prefer a spicy kick, add some minced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a delicious twist. These variations keep your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball exciting and fresh!

For more delicious recipes, check out appetizers or recipes on our website!

Delicious Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball for Gatherings

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A festive, creamy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball perfect for holidays and gatherings. It combines sharp cheddar, cream cheese, dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a flavorful, make-ahead appetizer that guests will love.

Author: Robert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz (452g) full-fat brick-style cream cheese, softened
1 3/4 cups (175g) shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, divided
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon light or dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup (108g) finely chopped dried cranberries, divided
3/4 cup (100g) finely chopped pecans, divided

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Instructions

Soften cream cheese to room temperature.
In a stand mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
Add shredded cheddar, 1 tbsp chives, parsley, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the cranberries and pecans. Mix until fully combined.
Form the mixture into a ball using hands or a spatula. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 5 days).
In a bowl, combine remaining chives, cranberries, and pecans to make the coating.
Unwrap chilled cheese ball and roll it in the coating, pressing lightly to adhere.
Serve immediately or wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. Let sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving.