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Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

This cranberry pecan cheese ball combines full-fat cream cheese, white sharp cheddar, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, fresh chives, and garlic powder for a no-cook holiday appetizer that takes fifteen minutes to mix. The chilled ball firms in the fridge, while the nut and cranberry coating creates a festive finish. Serve it with sturdy crackers, celery, and carrot batons at a Thanksgiving gathering or holiday party when you need a reliable crowd pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 192
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup white sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • 1 cup dried cranberries (chopped and divided)
  • 1 cup Fisher’s Nuts pecans (chopped and toasted *optional)
  • 1/4 cup chives or green onions (chopped)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Equipment

  • Hand mixer
  • large mixing bowl
  • Plastic wrap
  • Baking tray
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Toast the Pecans
    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chopped pecans in an even layer on a baking sheet. Toast for about 5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly toasted. Watch them closely to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
  2. Mix the Cheese Ball
    In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ½ cup of the toasted pecans, ½ cup dried cranberries, chives or green onions, and garlic powder until well combined and evenly mixed.
  3. Shape and Chill
    Place the cheese mixture in the center of a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use the wrap to gather and shape the mixture into a compact ball, making sure it is completely covered. Refrigerate until firm and ready to serve.
  4. Add the Cranberry-Pecan Coating
    Just before serving, combine the remaining ½ cup toasted pecans, ½ cup dried cranberries, and 2 tablespoons chives on a flat surface or cutting board.
    Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and gently roll it through the cranberry-pecan mixture, turning it as needed until the entire surface is evenly coated. Press the coating gently onto the cheese ball so it sticks.
  5. Serve
    Serve the cheese ball with crackers, pita chips, pretzels, carrot sticks, celery, or your favorite dippers.