Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe: Easy Holiday Appetizer

If you’re looking for the ultimate party appetizer, this cranberry pecan cheese ball recipe is the answer. It’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet and nutty. This cheese ball is always a showstopper at holiday gatherings, family parties, or any time you want to impress your guests with something festive and delicious. The combination of sharp cheddar, smooth cream cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans is simply irresistible.

What makes this cheese ball even better is how easy it is to make ahead. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a beautiful centerpiece for your snack table. Serve it with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh veggies, and watch it disappear in no time. Let’s dive into this classic recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball?

  • Quick & easy: Mix, chill, and serve—no baking required.
  • Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for prepping a day or two before your event.
  • Festive & versatile: Great for holidays, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.
  • Crowd-pleaser: Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Ball

  • 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (white or yellow)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • ½ cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives or green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating

  • ¼ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
  • Add shredded cheddar, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Fold in the chopped cranberries, pecans, and chives with a spatula.

2. Shape the Cheese Ball

  • Scrape the mixture into the center of a large piece of plastic wrap.
  • Gather the wrap around the cheese mixture and gently shape it into a ball. Twist the ends of the wrap to secure.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 days. This helps the flavors meld and the cheese ball firm up.

3. Coat the Cheese Ball

  • In a shallow dish, mix the coating ingredients: remaining cranberries, pecans, and chives or parsley.
  • Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the coating mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Make sure it’s evenly covered on all sides.

4. Serve

  • Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
  • Surround with crackers, sliced baguette, pretzels, or veggie sticks.

Tips for the Best Cheese Ball

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
  • Shred your own cheddar for better melt and flavor—pre-shredded cheese can be dry.
  • Chop ingredients finely so the cheese ball holds together and is easy to spread.
  • Toast the pecans for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Customize it: Add a pinch of cayenne for heat, swap in different cheeses, or use honey-roasted nuts for a sweet twist.

Variations

  • Goat Cheese Twist: Replace half the cream cheese with goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
  • Savory Herb: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill for an herby note.
  • Mini Cheese Balls: Make bite-sized balls for individual servings—perfect for parties!
  • Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños.

Make-Ahead and Storage

  • Make ahead: Prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Store wrapped in plastic in the fridge. Roll in the coating just before serving for the freshest look.
  • Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors get even better after a day or two!

Serving Suggestions

  • Crackers: Wheat, multigrain, or buttery crackers are classic.
  • Baguette slices: Toasted or fresh.
  • Veggies: Celery, carrots, bell pepper strips, or cucumber rounds.
  • Pretzels: Sticks or crisps for a salty crunch.
  • Apple slices: For a sweet and tart contrast.

Related Recipes:

FAQs

1. Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes! The cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance. Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. For best presentation, roll it in the cranberry and pecan coating just before serving.

2. Can I freeze a cheese ball?

You can freeze the cheese ball (without the coating) for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then roll in the coating before serving. Note that the texture may be slightly softer after freezing.

3. What can I use instead of pecans?

If you don’t have pecans, try walnuts, almonds, or pistachios. For a nut-free version, use roasted sunflower seeds or simply coat with extra cranberries and herbs.

4. How do I keep the cheese ball from sticking?

Make sure to chill the cheese ball well before shaping and rolling. Use plastic wrap to help shape it, and coat your hands lightly with oil or water if needed.

5. Can I make this cheese ball gluten-free?

Absolutely! The cheese ball itself is gluten-free. Just serve it with gluten-free crackers, veggie sticks, or gluten-free bread.

Why This Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe Works?

This cheese ball recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, sweet, and nutty flavors. The cream cheese and cheddar create a rich base, while cranberries add a pop of sweetness and pecans bring the crunch. Fresh chives and garlic powder brighten the flavor, making every bite irresistible. It’s easy to make, easy to serve, and always a hit at gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, bringing an appetizer to a potluck, or just want a tasty snack for your family, this cranberry pecan cheese ball recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s a classic!

Enjoy your festive, flavorful cheese ball and happy entertaining!

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe: Easy Holiday Appetizer

Sumara Ansari
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a delicious and festive appetizer that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or casual get-togethers. It’s creamy, tangy, sweet, and crunchy—all in one bite!Serve it with crackers, veggies, or toast for an instant crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup dried cranberries chopped
  • ½ cup pecans finely chopped
  • 2 green onions finely sliced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Pinch of salt
  • Extra cranberries and pecans for coating

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, pepper, and salt until smooth.
  • Stir in chopped cranberries, green onions, and half of the pecans.
  • Shape mixture into a ball using clean hands or plastic wrap.
  • Roll the ball in a mix of remaining cranberries and pecans to coat the outside.
  • Chill for at least 30 minutes for best texture.
  • Serve with crackers, pretzels, or sliced veggies.

Notes

  • For easier mixing, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
  • You can swap pecans for walnuts or almonds.
  • Add a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for a flavor kick.
  • Make it up to 2 days ahead and keep refrigerated.

DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY RECIPE?

If you have, then share it with us by sending a photo. We’re excited to see what you’ve made:-)
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