Print

Flavorful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe Easy Perfect Party Appetizer

cranberry pecan cheese ball - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy cheese ball featuring tart cranberries and crunchy toasted pecans in a creamy cheese base, perfect for holiday gatherings and casual parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Crackers for serving (water crackers, multigrain, or buttery Ritz-style)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet and toast for 7-10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Remove and let cool completely.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir in chopped dried cranberries, green onions, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until evenly distributed.
  4. Transfer mixture onto plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape into a tight ball about 6 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  5. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in toasted pecans until fully coated, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Place coated cheese ball on serving plate and chill for another 30 minutes if possible. Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture and flavor. Toast pecans carefully to avoid burning. Chill the cheese ball for at least 1 hour to firm up and meld flavors. For a smoother texture, pulse dried cranberries in a food processor before mixing. Nut-free alternatives include rolling in toasted seeds or crushed pretzels. Can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freeze without pecan coating for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, cranberry, pecan, appetizer, party snack, holiday appetizer, easy recipe, creamy cheese ball

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/flavorful-cranberry-pecan-cheese-ball-recipe-easy-perfect-party-appetizer/