Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Name: Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Holiday & Festive Meals

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball. Creamy and rich, this easy-to-make appetizer combines tangy cream cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Serve with crackers or fruit for a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests and add a pop of festive color to your celebration.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-25T05:42:25.371Z

This cheese ball is not only delicious but also a beautiful addition to your holiday table. With its vibrant colors and festive flavors, it will surely bring joy to any gathering.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is not only a holiday delight but also a versatile appetizer that can elevate any gathering. From casual get-togethers to formal celebrations, this cheese ball fits seamlessly into your appetizer lineup. Its creamy texture and contrasting crunch make it a hit with guests of all ages. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or a summer picnic, this cheese ball will surely impress your guests.

Beyond its impressive flavor, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen on the day of your event, allowing you to enjoy the company of your friends and family. Simply prepare the cheese ball a few days in advance, chill it in the fridge, and you’ll have a stress-free starter ready when you need it.

Customizable Options

One of the best aspects of the Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For example, if you’re not a fan of pecans, you can easily substitute them with walnuts or almonds. Likewise, consider adding herbs like fresh rosemary or thyme for additional flavor, or even some spices if you favor a little heat.

To make this cheese ball vegan, swap out the cream cheese and cheddar for dairy-free alternatives. With a bit of creativity, you can ensure that this appetizer caters to everyone at your gathering, making it an inclusive choice for guests with different dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, the presentation is key. Arrange your cheese ball on a colorful platter adorned with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, and fresh fruits like apples and grapes. This not only enhances visual appeal but also offers your guests a variety of textures and flavors to enjoy. A beautiful spread can transform your cheese ball into the centerpiece of your appetizer table.

For added flair, consider serving the cheese ball with an array of dips, such as a tangy apple cider vinegar or a sweet and spicy jalapeño jelly. These complementary flavors will enhance the overall experience and give your guests more delicious options to explore.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients together for a delicious cheese ball.

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberries, pecans, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Cheese Ball

Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form it into a ball shape. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.

Serve

Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator, unwrap, and place it on a serving platter. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit.

Enjoy your delicious festive appetizer!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store your cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for up to one week, allowing you to enjoy this tasty appetizer beyond your initial gathering. The flavors often develop further as the cheese ball sits, making it an even more delightful bite on subsequent days.

If you want to prepare this recipe in advance for a future event, consider freezing the cheese ball before it is coated in any nuts or toppings. When you’re ready to serve it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then coat it with pecans for that fresh, crunchy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

For a delightful pairing, consider enjoying your cheese ball with a refreshing glass of sparkling cider or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity in these beverages complements the tangy cream cheese and balances the sweetness of the cranberries beautifully.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a fizzy lemonade or iced tea with mint work beautifully. These drinks enhance the festive spirit of the gathering while being refreshing and palate-cleansing between bites.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball a day in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day ahead and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator.