Description
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a creamy, crunchy, and sweet-savory appetizer that elevates any snack table. It features rich cream cheese and sharp cheddar, mixed with green onions and coated in a festive crust of toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and herbs. Perfect for entertaining, holidays, or game nights, this easy recipe can be made ahead and served with crackers, apple slices, or veggie sticks. Whether you’re planning party appetizers, quick appetizer ideas, or holiday food ideas, this cheese ball delivers with elegance and simplicity.
Ingredients
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup green onions, finely chopped (divided)
3/4 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Stir in half of the chopped green onions.
3. Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap, shape into a ball, and chill for at least 1 hour.
4. Mix together the pecans, cranberries, remaining green onions, and herbs on a plate.
5. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the coating, pressing to adhere.
6. Serve immediately or wrap and refrigerate until ready.
Notes
Let the cheese ball soften at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for best texture.
Toast the pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg