Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball
The Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball is a festive and delicious appetizer that combines creamy cheese with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make dish can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends
Ingredients
- 16 ounces 2 blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup 113 g shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup 130 g dried cranberries, roughly chopped, divided
- 1 cup 109 g pecans, finely chopped, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives chopped, divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Crackers or toasted bread for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar, ½ cup of dried cranberries, ½ cup of chopped pecans, chives, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Place the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape the mixture into a ball. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- On a plate, combine the remaining cranberries, pecans, and chives.
- Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
- Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve with crackers or toasted bread.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like cayenne pepper or cinnamon.
- This cheese ball can be made up to two days in advance; just coat it right before serving.