Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball
Highlighted under: SeasonCraft Recipes
Add a festive touch to your gatherings with this delicious Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball. Creamy cheddar cheese is blended with tart cranberries and crunchy nuts, creating a flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers. Serve it with crisp crackers or fresh veggies for an irresistible snack that everyone will love.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball is an incredibly versatile appetizer that can elevate any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday party, a casual backyard barbecue, or a cozy family game night, this cheese ball fits right in. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma make it a visual and sensory delight, perfect for impressing your guests.
Not only does this dish appeal to the taste buds, but it also makes for a stunning centerpiece on your appetizer table. With its combination of creamy cheddar and tart cranberries, it offers a delightful contrast that is sure to please a crowd. Simply set out your cheese ball alongside an array of crackers and fresh veggies for a feast that is both beautiful and delicious.
Make Ahead and Store
One of the best features of the Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of your event. Once shaped, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It will firm up nicely, making it easy to slice and serve.
To store leftovers, keep the cheese ball tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It can last up to a week, if you can resist devouring it all at once! Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as this will enhance the creamy texture, making it even more enjoyable.
Customization and Variations
This cheese ball recipe is not only delicious as is, but it also lends itself well to customization. Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, cheeses, or even add fresh herbs to enhance the flavor profile. A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley could provide a delightful pop of color and taste.
For those who prefer a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give your cheese ball a spicy kick. Alternatively, you could swap out the dried cranberries for dried cherries or apricots for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this recipe to suit your palate and impress your guests.
Ingredients
Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Crackers or fresh veggies for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well-blended.
Add Ingredients
Stir in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped nuts, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until fully incorporated.
Form the Cheese Ball
Using your hands, shape the mixture into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Serve
Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator, unwrap, and place on a serving platter. Serve with crackers or fresh veggies.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball experience, consider offering a variety of serving options alongside it. Crisp crackers are a classic choice, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy cheese. Opt for a range of textures, from buttery to whole grain, ensuring all your guests find something they enjoy.
Fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers are not just a healthy alternative, but they also add color to your platter. Their crispness offers a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese ball. Arrange them artfully around the cheese ball for an appealing presentation that invites guests to dive in.
Pairing Beverages
When it comes to beverages, this cheese ball pairs wonderfully with many options. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creamy and tangy flavors beautifully. The acidity of the wine offsets the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance that enhances your tasting experience.
For non-alcoholic options, consider serving sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice or a refreshing herbal iced tea. These beverages provide a palate-cleansing counterpart, making your cheese ball even more enjoyable to savor alongside your favorite drinks.
Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball
Add a festive touch to your gatherings with this delicious Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball. Creamy cheddar cheese is blended with tart cranberries and crunchy nuts, creating a flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers. Serve it with crisp crackers or fresh veggies for an irresistible snack that everyone will love.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: SeasonCraft Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Crackers or fresh veggies for serving
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well-blended.
Stir in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped nuts, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until fully incorporated.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator, unwrap, and place on a serving platter. Serve with crackers or fresh veggies.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 6g