Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball is a timeless appetizer that perfectly captures the flavors and spirit of the season. It is rich, creamy, slightly sweet, and pleasantly crunchy, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings. I often rely on this recipe when I need something elegant yet dependable, especially during busy entertaining days. The combination of tangy cream cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and toasted pecans creates a balanced flavor that pairs beautifully with crackers or sliced bread. Another reason this recipe stands out is its make-ahead convenience. Preparing it in advance not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together even more. If you are looking for a festive appetizer that looks impressive, tastes indulgent, and requires minimal effort, this holiday cheese ball is a perfect choice.
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Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball: A Festive Classic for Effortless Entertaining
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball is a classic festive appetizer made with a creamy, savory cheese mixture rolled in sweet dried cranberries and crunchy pecans, perfect for holiday entertaining.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
- Crackers or pretzels, for serving
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up slightly.
- In a separate bowl, mix chopped cranberries and pecans.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture until fully coated.
- Wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve with crackers or pretzels.
Notes
- Make ahead up to 2 days for best flavor.
- Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
- Walnuts can be used instead of pecans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese forms the smooth and creamy base of the cheese ball. It provides richness and structure, making the ball easy to shape and spread.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar adds sharpness and depth of flavor, balancing the mildness of the cream cheese.
Dried Cranberries
Dried cranberries bring sweetness and a slight tartness, adding both flavor contrast and festive color.
Chopped Pecans
Pecans add crunch and a buttery nuttiness. They are used both inside the cheese ball and as a coating for texture.
Green Onions
Green onions add a mild savory note that keeps the cheese ball from tasting overly rich.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder provides subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and ensures the cheese ball is well seasoned.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh finish, enhancing the holiday presentation.
Directions
Begin by placing the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Using clean hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into a smooth ball. Spread the remaining chopped pecans on a flat surface and gently roll the cheese ball until it is evenly coated. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow it to firm up and develop flavor.
Before serving, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 8 to 10 people as an appetizer. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a chilling time of at least 2 hours.
Storage/reheating
Store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to five days. This recipe does not require reheating. Remove it from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving for easier spreading.
Variations and Customizations
Extra Savory
Add finely chopped cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
Nut-Free Option
Omit the pecans and roll the cheese ball in fresh herbs instead.
Spiced Version
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for warmth.
Sweeter Profile
Mix in a small amount of honey for added sweetness.
Individual Portions
Shape the mixture into smaller cheese balls for individual servings.
FAQs
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, it is ideal for making one to two days in advance.
Do I need to toast the pecans?
Toasting enhances flavor but is optional.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, though the texture may be slightly softer.
What crackers work best?
Neutral crackers allow the flavors to shine.
Can I freeze a cheese ball?
Freezing is not recommended, as it affects texture.
How long should it sit out before serving?
About 15 minutes is sufficient.
Can I add other cheeses?
Yes, gouda or Monterey Jack work well.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes, it has mild, balanced flavors.
Can I shape it differently?
Yes, a log or wreath shape works well for holidays.
How do I keep it from drying out?
Keep it wrapped until ready to serve.
Conclusion
Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball is a festive, flavorful appetizer that never goes out of style. Its creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and crunchy coating make it a reliable favorite for holiday entertaining. Easy to prepare and beautiful on the table, it is a recipe you will return to season after season.
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