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Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

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The Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a colorful, creamy appetizer packed with tangy cheese, dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and fresh herbs. Perfect for the holidays, it’s easy to make ahead and always a crowd-pleaser.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: 8–10 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 4 oz goat cheese or sharp cheddar, crumbled or shredded
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped and divided
  • 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped, divided
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or green onions, chopped and divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and goat cheese (or cheddar) until smooth and creamy.
  2. Mix in half of the cranberries, pecans, and herbs. Add garlic powder, honey, salt, and pepper to taste.
  3. Shape the mixture into a ball using plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
  4. On a plate, mix the remaining cranberries, pecans, and herbs.
  5. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the coating mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Serve with crackers, crostini, pretzels, or sliced veggies. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Chilling before coating helps the toppings stick better.
  • Swap in blue cheese, bacon bits, or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory variation.
  • Roll in crushed pistachios or cinnamon-sugar nuts for color or dessert-style twist.
  • Let sit out for 15–20 minutes before serving for easier spreading.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 5 days; best served fresh, not frozen.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/festive-cranberry-pecan-cheese-ball/