Description
Creamy cheese mingles with zesty cranberries and crunchy pecans in this irresistible Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball, perfect for holiday gatherings. Guests will savor each bite of this elegant appetizer that blends tangy and rich flavors into one delightful spread.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheeses:
- 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Dried Fruits and Nuts:
- ½ cup (60 grams) dried cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup (30 grams) chopped pecans
- ½ cup chopped pecans (for coating)
Seasonings and Sweeteners:
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
Serving Suggestions:
- Crackers
- Fresh vegetables
- Bread slices
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture by blending softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar, creating a smooth and creamy base for the appetizer.
- Gently fold in finely chopped cranberries, introducing a tart and vibrant element to the mixture.
- Incorporate half of the pecans into the cheese blend, ensuring an even distribution of nutty flavor throughout the mixture.
- Enhance the flavor profile by adding a touch of honey, which will provide a subtle sweetness to balance the tangy ingredients.
- Sprinkle in garlic powder and thyme to add depth and aromatic complexity to the cheese ball.
- Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap, using the wrap to carefully mold the cheese into a compact, symmetrical sphere.
- Chill the cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- Prepare the coating by spreading the remaining pecans on a flat surface, creating a crunchy exterior layer.
- Optional: Scatter additional chopped cranberries among the pecans for an extra burst of color and flavor.
- Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and gently roll it through the pecan mixture, ensuring a complete and even coating.
- Transfer the finished cheese ball to a decorative serving platter, surrounding it with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or sliced bread for dipping.
Notes
- Select room temperature cream cheese for smoother, easier mixing without lumps.
- Finely chop cranberries to distribute flavor evenly and prevent large chunks in the cheese ball.
- Use toasted pecans for enhanced nutty flavor and improved texture, adding depth to the overall taste.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like goat cheese or blue cheese for unique variations that suit personal preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 195
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg