Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball Recipe is a delightful blend of creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and tart cranberries that creates a symphony of flavors. Imagine biting into this savory-sweet treat, with the crunch of nuts dancing alongside the smooth cream cheese and the pop of tangy cranberries. mini pineapple cheesecakes It’s practically a holiday miracle on your taste buds!
Now, think about those cozy gatherings around the fireplace or festive holiday parties where this cheeseball steals the spotlight. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, it easily becomes the star of any appetizer table, leaving guests clamoring for more. maple donut bars Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheeseball recipe offers an easy preparation method that anyone can master
- The combination of flavors makes it a crowd favorite at any gathering
- Its festive appearance adds visual appeal to any holiday spread
- Perfect for both snacking and entertaining, making it versatile for various occasions
I vividly remember the first time I made this Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball; my friends couldn’t get enough and kept asking for seconds—who knew cheese could create such joy? For more inspiration, check out this Cranberry Yogurt Bowl recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing and a rich, creamy texture.
Dried Cranberries: Look for sweetened dried cranberries; they add just the right touch of tartness.
Pecans: Toasted pecans bring out a wonderful nutty flavor and delightful crunch. air fryer taco bombs.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh kick and beautiful color to your cheeseball.
Garlic Powder: A dash enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth and umami, making every bite irresistible.
Crackers or Veggies: For serving; choose whatever you prefer for dipping.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients—this will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Chop your green onions finely and toast your pecans until fragrant.
Mix Cream Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and creamy. Use a hand mixer if you want to save some elbow grease.
Add Flavorful Mix-ins: Gently fold in chopped green onions, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans using a spatula until evenly distributed. Make sure each bite has that delightful crunch!
Shape Your Cheeseball: Spoon the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape it into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Coat with Pecans: Once chilled, roll your cheeseball in remaining chopped pecans until fully coated. This adds an extra crunch that everyone will love.
Serve with Style!: Arrange your cheeseball on a platter accompanied by an assortment of crackers or veggie sticks. Watch as your guests dive in eagerly—it’s hard to resist!
Enjoy this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball Recipe as an appetizer during holidays or casual get-togethers! cottage cheese flatbread.
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry pecan cheeseball not only dazzles your taste buds, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings
- With its creamy texture and nutty crunch, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious
- Customize it to suit your tastes for every event
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by mixing the cream cheese and seasonings until smooth, then fold in cranberries and pecans. Shape into a ball and chill for at least one hour to ensure the flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or add herbs like rosemary for a unique twist. Experiment with spices for extra zing, making your cheeseball truly yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store the cheeseball in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. There’s no need to reheat; enjoy it cold with crackers straight from the fridge.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a smoother cheeseball, allow your cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing
- Incorporate more dried fruits like apricots for added sweetness
- Always use fresh herbs if possible; they enhance flavor dramatically!
I remember the first time I made this cheeseball; my friends devoured it within minutes! Their laughter filled the kitchen while I felt like a culinary genius.
FAQ
What can I serve with cranberry pecan cheeseball?
Serve with crackers, apple slices, or toasted baguette slices for a perfect pairing.
Can I make this cheeseball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to two days before serving; just store it in the fridge.
How long does the cranberry pecan cheeseball last?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for about five days when stored properly.
Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of our Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball. This creamy, savory-sweet appetizer features rich cream cheese, crunchy toasted pecans, and tangy dried cranberries, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. With its vibrant colors and delightful taste, this cheeseball will have your guests coming back for seconds—and thirds! Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s sure to impress at any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Crackers or veggie sticks (for serving)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients for smooth preparation.
- In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce until creamy.
- Gently fold in chopped green onions, cranberries, and toasted pecans until evenly mixed.
- Shape the mixture into a ball using plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Roll the chilled cheeseball in remaining chopped pecans until well coated.
- Serve on a platter with crackers or veggie sticks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (40g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For added flavor, substitute pecans with walnuts or mix in fresh herbs like rosemary. Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing. This cheeseball can be made up to two days in advance; simply store it in the fridge.
