Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball recipe. Creamy, tangy cheese is perfectly blended with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating a mouthwatering appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. Serve with savory crackers or fresh fruit for a vibrant and delicious start to your festivities!

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-25T05:16:44.705Z

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is not just a holiday treat; it’s versatile enough for any gathering throughout the year. Whether you're hosting a New Year's Eve party, a summer potluck, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this appetizer fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its vibrant color and playful texture add a cheerful touch to your appetizers spread, instantly elevating your table's aesthetic.

Not only is this cheese ball a visual delight, but it also caters to a variety of palates. The combination of creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This means it's sure to please a diverse group of guests—everyone from picky eaters to adventurous foodies will find something to enjoy.

Easy Preparation

One of the best things about the Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create an impressive appetizer that looks like it was made by a professional chef. This makes it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your guests’ company.

In addition to being quick and easy to make, this recipe also allows for some creative flexibility. Feel free to customize the flavor profile by experimenting with different cheeses or nuts based on your preferences. This versatility ensures that you can adjust the ingredients to suit the tastes of your friends and family, making every gathering a unique experience.

Pairing Suggestions

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Instructions

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Form the Cheese Ball

Transfer the mixture to a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Serve

Remove from the refrigerator, unwrap, and place on a serving platter. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit.

Enjoy your holiday appetizer!

Storage Tips

Storing your Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball properly is crucial for maintaining its flavor and freshness. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. When stored correctly, it can last for up to a week in the refrigerator, making it a great make-ahead option for busy holiday preparations.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider using them in other culinary creations. Crumble the cheese ball over a salad for an added burst of flavor or blend it into a pasta sauce for an indulgent twist. This way, you can savor the deliciousness long after the party has ended.

Serving Ideas

Think outside the box when it comes to serving your cheese ball. Instead of the usual platter, consider placing it inside a hollowed-out bread bowl. This not only adds a unique touch but also provides an easy way for guests to scoop out the delicious cheese mixture. Just make sure to offer additional bread slices or crackers along side for dipping.

For a festive presentation, you can garnish the cheese ball with extra chopped pecans and cranberries before serving. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can also brighten it up, enhancing both its appearance and taste. These little details go a long way in making your event memorable.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the cheese ball in advance?

Yes, you can make it up to two days ahead of time. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?

This cheese ball pairs well with various types of crackers, fresh fruit, or even sliced vegetables.

Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball recipe. Creamy, tangy cheese is perfectly blended with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating a mouthwatering appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. Serve with savory crackers or fresh fruit for a vibrant and delicious start to your festivities!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time20 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

Cheese Ball Ingredients

  1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  3. 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  4. 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  5. 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  6. 1 tsp garlic powder
  7. 1 tsp onion powder
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Step 02

Transfer the mixture to a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Step 03

Remove from the refrigerator, unwrap, and place on a serving platter. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Protein: 5g