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Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball Recipe for Holidays

Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball - featured image

A festive and flavorful appetizer featuring tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy cheese. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped (toasted for extra flavor)
  • 2 stalks green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Crackers or veggies for serving

Instructions

  1. Take the cream cheese out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before you start to let it soften.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and salt. Use a rubber spatula to mix everything until it’s well-combined.
  3. Add the chopped cranberries and half of the chopped pecans to the cheese mixture. Fold them in gently to evenly distribute.
  4. Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Transfer the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Using the edges of the wrap, shape the mixture into a ball. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to secure and place the cheeseball in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to firm up.
  5. Once the cheeseball is chilled, spread the remaining chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the cheeseball and gently roll it over the pecans, pressing lightly to ensure the nuts stick to the surface.
  6. Transfer the cheeseball to a serving platter. Sprinkle with some chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
  7. Serve with your favorite crackers, pita chips, or veggies.

Notes

[‘Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.’, ‘Toast the pecans for enhanced flavor.’, ‘Chill the cheeseball for at least 1-2 hours to firm up.’, ‘For a nut-free version, use crushed pretzels or chopped parsley as a coating.’, ‘Leftovers can be spread on toast or used as a sandwich filler.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Cranberry, Pecan, Cheeseball, Holiday Appetizer, Party Snack, Easy Recipe, Festive Food