• Combines creamy cheese with sweet‑tart cranberries and crunchy pecans for a delicious flavor and texture contrast. • Makes an elegant appetizer with minimal effort. • Easy to make ahead and keeps well in the fridge. • Perfect for gatherings, holiday spreads, or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cream cheese, softened goat cheese or another soft cheese (optional) dried cranberries chopped pecans, toasted fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), finely chopped (optional) honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness) crackers, sliced baguette, or veggies for serving
Directions
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and goat cheese (if using) until smooth.
Stir in dried cranberries, most of the chopped pecans, and herbs if desired.
Add honey or maple syrup if you want a slightly sweeter cheese ball.
Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula.
Roll the cheese ball in the remaining pecans, pressing gently so they stick to the outside.
Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
Servings and timing
Serves: about 8–12 (as an appetizer) Prep time: 15–20 minutes Chill time: at least 1 hour before serving
Storage/Reheating
• Refrigerator: Store leftover cheese ball in an airtight container or tightly wrapped for up to 5 days. • Freezer: You can freeze the cheese ball for up to 1 month—wrap tightly in plastic and then foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. • No reheating needed since this is served cold.
FAQs
What cheeses work best for a cheese ball?
Cream cheese is the base; you can add goat cheese, feta, or even a bit of cheddar for extra flavor.
Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better when made a few hours ahead so the flavors meld.
How do I keep the pecans from falling off?
Press the pecans firmly into the surface of the cheese ball so they adhere well.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are very tart and may not mix well—dried are better for texture and sweetness.
What can I serve with a cranberry pecan cheese ball?
Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, pita chips, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrots.
Is this recipe gluten‑free?
Yes, if you serve it with gluten‑free crackers or veggies instead of bread.
How long does the cheese ball last in the fridge?
About 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes — use dairy‑free cream cheese and add a touch of maple syrup for sweetness.
Can I add spices to the cheese ball?
Sure — a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even some black pepper can add interesting flavor.
What if I don’t like pecans?
You can substitute chopped walnuts, almonds, or your favorite nuts instead.
Conclusion
A Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a simple yet elegant appetizer that’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for entertaining. Whether for a holiday table or a casual get‑together, it’s sure to be a crowd‑pleaser. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste and occasion.
A Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a festive, creamy appetizer blended with sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy toasted pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 oz goat cheese (optional)
1/2 cup dried cranberries
3/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted and divided
2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley or chives), finely chopped (optional)
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
Crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for serving
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and goat cheese (if using) until smooth and creamy.
Stir in the dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of the chopped toasted pecans, and herbs if using.
Add honey or maple syrup if you prefer a slightly sweeter cheese ball.
Shape the mixture into a ball using clean hands or a spatula.
Roll the cheese ball in the remaining 1/4 cup chopped pecans, pressing gently so they adhere to the surface.
Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Unwrap and serve with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Make ahead for better flavor — chilling helps the ingredients meld.Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.To make vegan, use plant-based cream cheese and maple syrup.Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.Freezable for up to 1 month — thaw in fridge before serving.
