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 cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball! Creamy cheese combined with bright, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans create a stunning centerpiece that pairs perfectly with crackers and fruits. This easy-to-make appetizer is not only visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties and family celebrations.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-25T09:55:21.123Z

This cheese ball is a favorite at holiday parties, loved for its creamy texture and delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

        Why You'll Love It
        Easy to make and requires no cooking
A beautiful centerpiece for any table
Perfect for pairing with a variety of dippers.

      

The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

A Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the perfect appetizer to serve during holiday gatherings. Its rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a delicious balance between the creaminess of the cheese and the festive touch of cranberries and pecans. Not only does this cheese ball taste great, but it also looks fantastic on any table, making it a delightful centerpiece that your guests will admire.

This appetizer is ideal for parties, potlucks, and family celebrations. It’s always a hit because it caters to a variety of palates, offering a rich and savory snack option. Plus, it pairs well with an array of dippers, so your guests will enjoy it with crackers, vegetables, and even fruits, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Easy Preparation for Stress-Free Hosting

One of the best aspects of the Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is its simplicity. With minimal effort and no cooking involved, you can whip up this delightful appetizer in no time. Just mix the ingredients, shape the ball, and let it chill in the fridge. This means you can focus on other preparations for your event, reducing stress and allowing for more quality time with your guests.

The advanced preparation also makes it an excellent choice for busy holiday schedules. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, ready to serve when your guests arrive. Its make-ahead nature not only saves you time but also enhances its flavors as it chills, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Customizable Flavor Options

While the base recipe offers a wonderful flavor, feel free to customize your Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball to suit your preferences. Consider adding spices or herbs to elevate the flavor profile. For a bit of heat, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, to introduce unique tastes to this classic dish.

Another excellent addition could be a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to give a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients. This customization not only makes the cheese ball your own but also brings new life to your holiday spreads, allowing you to impress your guests with innovative flavors.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Ingredients

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

Mix together the ingredients to form a cohesive mixture.

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Cheese Ball

Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to form the mixture into a ball. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Serve

Once chilled, unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped pecans and cranberries if desired. Serve with crackers and fruits.

Enjoy your festive cheese ball!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, presentation is key! Arrange your cheese ball on a beautiful platter surrounded by an assortment of colors and textures. Fresh fruits like grapes, sliced apples, or pears complement the cheese ball nicely, adding natural sweetness and freshness. Additionally, a variety of crackers and sturdy pretzels provide the perfect crunch, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding sliced pepperoni or spicy salami to your platter. This adds a savory element that pairs well with the sweetness of the cranberries and the creaminess of the cheese. Including a few veggie sticks, such as celery or carrots, on the side can offer a healthier option for your guests.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Your Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure it’s wrapped tight to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Keeping it well-sealed maintains its fresh taste and creamy texture, so it’s ready to impress again at your next gathering.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cheese ball. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place it in an airtight container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

The Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball offers more than just a delightful flavor, as it also contains several nutritious ingredients. Cream cheese provides calcium and protein, while pecans add healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. Dried cranberries are not only delicious but are also a source of fiber and antioxidants, which can contribute to heart health.

Moreover, green onions in the cheese ball offer a boost of vitamin K and other essential nutrients. When enjoyed in moderation, this festive appetizer can be a satisfying part of a balanced party spread, allowing you to indulge without compromising your health goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball in advance?

Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance and keep it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?

It goes great with crackers, sliced fruits, and vegetables.