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
- 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.
- Shape Cheese Ball: Using your hands or a spatula, form the mixture into a compact ball shape, ensuring it holds together firmly.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
