Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball

Name: Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: SeasonCraft Recipes

Create a festive sensation with this delightful Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball recipe. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, this easy-to-make appetizer combines creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and tart cranberries for a flavor explosion that everyone will love. Serve it alongside crackers or fresh veggies for an irresistible starter that will have your guests coming back for more.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-27T07:26:51.054Z

This Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or just enjoying a casual evening with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball is an exceptional appetizer that transcends seasonal boundaries. While it shines during holiday gatherings, its delightful flavor profile makes it suitable for any occasion. From casual family dinners to cocktail parties with friends, this cheese ball is sure to impress. Pair it with your favorite beverages for a truly festive experience, and watch as your guests savor each bite.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a winter holiday bash, this recipe adapts beautifully. The vibrant colors and textures appeal to the eye, while the mixture of sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans creates an addictive taste sensation. For events where you want to make a lasting impression, this cheese ball will set the tone for an enjoyable evening.

Easy to Customize

One of the best features of the Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball is its versatility. While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, you can easily tailor it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding spices like cayenne pepper for a hint of heat or swapping out pecans for walnuts or almonds to create a different flavor profile. This adaptability makes the recipe perfect for experimenting and discovering new combinations.

You can also modify the texture of the cheese ball by mixing in cream cheese with various flavors—think garlic and herb or blue cheese. Additionally, tossing in some diced bell peppers or olives will introduce an unexpected twist. As you personalize your cheese ball, remember to keep the balance of flavors in mind to ensure a harmonious appetizer.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Time management is vital when hosting, and this Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball is a make-ahead dream come true. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator, enhancing the overall taste. You can make this appetizer up to two days before your event, allowing you to enjoy your guests more without the stress of last-minute preparations.

Simply store the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator, and take it out about 15 minutes before serving. This will allow it to soften slightly for easy spreading. It's a small trick that makes a big difference, ensuring your cheese ball is at its best when it’s time to dig in.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and form into a ball. Chill before serving.

Instructions

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything until well combined.

Shape and Chill

Form the mixture into a ball shape and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the cheese ball.

Serve

Remove from the fridge, unwrap, and serve with crackers or fresh veggies.

Enjoy your delicious cheese ball with your favorite dippers!

Storing Leftovers

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, storing them is easy. Simply wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to a week when refrigerated. This means you can enjoy your delicious creation for snacks or meals long after your gathering has ended.

For longer storage, you might consider freezing it. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just be sure to allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for a day before serving again.

Serving Suggestions

The Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Crackers are a classic pairing, but you can also serve it with sliced baguette or toasted pita chips for an elegant touch. Fresh vegetables like celery sticks, carrot rounds, and cucumber slices provide a refreshing crunch, making them perfect for those seeking healthier options.

You can even elevate your cheese ball experience by adding additional dips and spreads to your serving platter, such as hummus or spicy salsa. Pair everything with a selection of beverages. Wine, sparkling water, or signature cocktails can enhance the flavors of your appetizer, making your gathering a hit.

Nutritional Benefits

While indulgent, the Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball also offers nutritional benefits that can make your appetizer selection guilt-free. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and are known for their immune-boosting properties. Paired with the healthy fats found in pecans, this dish becomes both delicious and nutritious.

Cream cheese, while rich, can also provide essential calcium and other vitamins. Just be mindful of portion sizes to enjoy a balanced diet. Feel free to balance this cheese ball with lighter options on your spread, encouraging a well-rounded snacking experience that leaves everyone satisfied.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?

Serve it with a variety of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables like celery and bell peppers.