Print

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a creamy appetizer made with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, dried cranberries, and pecans, perfect for holidays and served with crackers.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature for effortless mixing.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon of the chopped chives, chopped parsley, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add half of the finely chopped dried cranberries and half of the finely chopped pecans to the mixture.
  4. Using a sturdy spatula or a stand mixer, beat or mix these ingredients until they are thoroughly combined. The mixture will be quite thick.
  5. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and use your hands to gently gather the cheese mixture, forming it into a compact ball. It might be slightly sticky.
  6. On a separate plate, combine the remaining chopped chives, dried cranberries, and pecans to create the coating.
  7. Roll the cheese ball in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure it is evenly coated on all sides.
  8. Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour to allow it to firm up and for the flavors to meld. This can be done up to 5 days in advance.
  9. Before serving, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to spread.
  10. Unwrap and place on a serving platter, surrounded by your favorite crackers. Provide a small knife for spreading.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
  • The cheese mixture will be thick and slightly sticky.
  • Can be prepared up to 5 days in advance.
  • Allow to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving.

Find it online: https://www.masterthecook.com/cranberry-pecan-cheese-ball/