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Easy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe for Holiday Parties

A festive cranberry pecan cheese ball coated in chopped nuts and dried cranberries, resting on a white plate.
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Make this creamy, sweet, and savory Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball. It is a simple, no-cook appetizer perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any gathering. Serve it with crackers for a crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

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  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped, plus 1 cup for coating
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped cranberries, 1/4 cup chopped pecans, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth.
  2. Place the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape the cheese mixture into a round ball.
  3. Chill the cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to handle easily. This step is key for make-ahead preparation.
  4. In a shallow dish, spread the remaining 1 cup of toasted pecans.
  5. Remove the chilled cheese ball from the plastic wrap. Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans until it is completely coated. Press gently so the nuts adhere.
  6. Return the coated cheese ball to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the coating to set.
  7. Serve cold with your choice of crackers, apple slices, or vegetable sticks.

Notes

  • Toasting the pecans deepens their flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes, then let them cool before chopping.
  • You can make this appetizer up to 3 days ahead. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Coat it with pecans just before serving.
  • For a festive look, mix 1/4 cup of dried cranberries with the coating pecans for a colorful exterior.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/cranberry-pecan-cheese-ball-recipe/