Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball
Highlighted under: SeasonCraft Recipes
Elevate your appetizer game with this delicious Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball recipe. Creamy, tangy cream cheese is combined with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This festive treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, making it a must-try for any cheese lover!
This Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball is a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your guests.
The Perfect Holiday Appetizer
This Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball is not just an appetizer; it's a festive centerpiece for your holiday table. The blend of cream cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful contrast that will impress your guests. Ideal for holiday parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in, this cheeseball offers a unique twist on traditional dips that keeps everyone coming back for more.
With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this cheeseball visually enhances your platter. Pair it with an assortment of crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables, and watch as it becomes the star of the show. Serve it during your holiday festivities, and it will surely spark conversations and compliments among your friends and family.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Making this delicious cheeseball is surprisingly simple and requires minimal preparation time. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip it up in under 15 minutes. After mixing the components, you'll just need to refrigerate it for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
This ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy hosts who want to offer something special without spending hours in the kitchen. You can even prepare it a day in advance, making it a convenient option for your holiday gatherings or last-minute entertaining.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
While this Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball shines during the holiday season, its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, a picnic, or a game night, it complements many different settings. Its delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors appeals to a wide range of palates.
Feel free to customize the cheeseball to match your personal taste preferences. Experiment with different nuts, herbs, or spices to create your unique version. This adaptability ensures that it can become a staple in your appetizer repertoire, enjoyed all year round.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for this delightful cheeseball.
Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp honey
Prepare to combine and shape your cheeseball.
Instructions
Follow these steps for an amazing cheeseball!
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and honey until well blended.
Shape into a Ball
Use your hands to shape the mixture into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Serve
Remove from the refrigerator, unwrap, and serve with your favorite crackers or bread.
Enjoy this festive treat at your next gathering!
Storage Tips
To keep your Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to one week, making it a great make-ahead option for special occasions. If you have leftover cheeseball, use it in sandwiches or wraps for a delightful lunch.
If you prefer to prepare ahead of time, you can make the cheeseball and freeze it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to serve it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this delicious cheeseball, creativity is key. Pair it with a variety of crackers, from savory to buttery options, or offer sliced baguette for a more classic touch. Fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips add a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your platter.
For an extra festive touch, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on the cheeseball before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful finishing touch that will impress your guests.
Health Benefits
Beyond its delicious flavors, this Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball offers some health benefits as well. Pecans are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. Dried cranberries bring a burst of antioxidants, supporting overall health and wellness.
Enjoying this cheeseball can be part of a balanced diet, especially when served with fresh vegetables. It’s a delightful way to indulge in rich flavors while benefiting from nutritious ingredients, striking the perfect balance between taste and health.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cheeseball ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
→ What can I serve with the cheeseball?
Serve with crackers, bread, or fresh fruits for a delicious pairing.
Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball
Elevate your appetizer game with this delicious Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball recipe. Creamy, tangy cream cheese is combined with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This festive treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, making it a must-try for any cheese lover!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: SeasonCraft Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp honey
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and honey until well blended.
Use your hands to shape the mixture into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Remove from the refrigerator, unwrap, and serve with your favorite crackers or bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 3g