Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball makes a festive appetizer for Christmas, New Years or Thanksgiving. It is also super quick and easy, can be made ahead of time, and always a crowd pleaser.

Although Cheese Ball’s might make you think of a retro party appetizer, the truth is, it is usually the first thing to disappear from the table. This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a festive holiday favorite that will keep your guests coming back for more.

Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

• Cream cheese – make sure it is softened to room temperature before blending
• White sharp cheddar cheese – white or orange cheese will both work fine.
• Dried cranberries – I used sweetened dried cranberries
• Pecans – make sure they are toasted, or toast them yourself.
• chives – you can also use green onions
• garlic powder – just a little adds some extra flavor
• salt – a pinch is all you need

How to Make a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

• In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese with an electric mixer, then stir in shredded cheddar, 1/2 cup cranberries,1/2 cup pecans, 2 tablespoons chives, garlic powder and salt. Stir until fully combined.
• Place mixture on a piece of plastic wrap. Use the plastic wrap to form the cheese mixture into a ball, then wrap it and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight.
• About 30 minutes before serving, mix together remaining cranberries, pecans and chives.
• Roll cheeseball in mixture, lightly pressing mixture onto the cheese as needed until it is fully covered. Place in the center of a clean plate, then allow to sit out at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving.
• Serve with crackers or toasted bread.

Can a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball be made ahead of time?

Yes, it is actually better to make it ahead of time so the flavors can meld. Just avoid rolling the cheese ball in the topping until right before serving. That way, the pecans will stay crunchy and the topping will be fresh.

To make ahead of time – tightly wrap in plastic wrap, then wrap again in foil . Remove from fridge about 30 minutes before serving and roll in topping. Cheese ball can be made several days ahead of time, provided all your ingredients are fresh to start with.

Can a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Be frozen?

Yes! Again, do not roll the cheese ball in the topping until right before serving. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil. Freeze for up to four weeks. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. . Remove from fridge 30 minutes before serving and roll in topping.

What Are the Best Crackers for Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball

I like to serve my cheese ball with buttery crackers like Townhouse or Ritz. A sturdier cracker like wheat thins would also work. And if you want to go crazy, add some pretzels and even some carrot or celery sticks.

More Holiday Appetizers you will love

• Prosciutto Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles
• Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl
• Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Bites
• Cranberry Jalapeno Dip