Description
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a delightful, no-cook appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings and parties. Creamy cream cheese is blended with dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a hint of cinnamon and sugar, then chilled to form a flavorful cheese ball. Serve it with crackers or sliced bread for an easy and elegant snack that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Garnish (Optional)
- Additional chopped pecans or powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, grated Parmesan cheese, sugar, and ground cinnamon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Using your hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into a round ball, ensuring it is compact and smooth for easy chilling and serving.
- Chill the Cheese Ball: Place the shaped cheese ball on a plate or in a container and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- Prepare for Serving: Before serving, optionally roll the chilled cheese ball in additional chopped pecans or powdered sugar to add a festive appearance and extra texture.
- Serve: Present the cranberry pecan cheese ball alongside crackers, sliced bread, or fresh vegetables as an elegant appetizer perfect for entertaining.
Notes
- For easier shaping, warm the mixture slightly or dampen your hands with water.
- The cheese ball can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred.
- For a savory twist, reduce the sugar or omit it completely.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.
