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Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A festive and flavorful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball that’s creamy, tangy, and perfect for holiday gatherings. This no-cook appetizer combines cream cheese with dried cranberries, pecans, Parmesan, and warm cinnamon, then chilled to perfection and served with crackers or sliced bread.


Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Ball Mixture

  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Garnish

  • Chopped pecans or powdered sugar, for rolling


Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, grated Parmesan cheese, sugar, and ground cinnamon until all ingredients are well combined.
  2. Shape Cheese Ball: Using your hands or a spatula, form the mixture into a compact ball shape, ensuring it holds together firmly.
  3. Chill: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up properly.
  4. Prepare Garnish: Before serving, optionally roll the cheese ball in additional chopped pecans or dust with powdered sugar to add an attractive festive touch and extra texture.
  5. Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter and serve with an assortment of crackers or sliced bread for guests to enjoy.

Notes

  • For best flavor, allow the cheese ball to chill overnight.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Use a mix of sweet and tart dried cranberries for a balanced taste.
  • Can be made a day ahead and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
  • Try adding a splash of orange zest for extra brightness, if desired.