Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball
Highlighted under: Festive Holiday Recipes
Elevate your appetizer game with this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball. Perfectly blended with creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, this festive treat adds a burst of flavor to any gathering. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit for a charming presentation that's sure to impress your guests.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball is an ideal appetizer for various gatherings, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers. Its vibrant colors and festive flavors make it a standout dish on any table. Guests will love the combination of creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, providing a delightful culinary experience that tempts the taste buds.
Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving celebration, a Christmas party, or a summer barbecue, this cheeseball fits seamlessly into any menu. It not only adds a touch of elegance but also encourages mingling as guests gather around the snack table, enjoying this delicious treat.
With its impressive presentation and a burst of holiday flavors, this cheeseball is sure to become a staple for your festive occasions. No matter the time of year, it’s a great way to elevate your appetizer game.
Easy to Make and Customize
One of the best aspects of this cheeseball is its simplicity. The ingredients come together in just a few minutes, making it easy to prepare even for those with a busy schedule. With little effort, you can offer a delicious, homemade appetizer that looks like it required much more time and skill.
Feel free to customize the cheeseball to suit your palate or dietary preferences. Swap out pecans for almonds or walnuts, or add spices like cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different herbs to complement the cheese, allowing you to create your unique twist on this classic recipe.
By adjusting the ingredients slightly, you can cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring everyone at your gathering finds something they enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, or fresh fruits, such as apple slices or pear wedges. These pairings not only enhance the flavors but also provide textures that elevate the overall snacking experience. Consider adding a selection of cheeses or charcuterie to create a beautiful cheeseboard.
For extra flair, garnish the cheeseball with fresh herbs or additional cranberries and pecans. This not only makes for an eye-catching presentation but also showcases the delicious ingredients used in the dish.
Don’t forget to offer a variety of dippers! Besides crackers and fruit, you can use vegetable sticks, such as carrots and celery, for a healthier alternative, ensuring that your appetizer spreads cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before you start:
Cheeseball Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Mix well and shape into a ball.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your cheeseball:
Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until well blended.
Form the Cheeseball
Shape the mixture into a ball, then roll it in additional chopped pecans to coat the outside.
Chill and Serve
Wrap the cheeseball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit.
Enjoy your delicious cheeseball!
Storage Tips
To keep your Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It can typically last for up to a week when properly stored. This means you can make it ahead of time for any upcoming gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
If you have leftover cheeseball, consider repurposing it by spreading it on toast or using it as a filling for sandwich wraps. Its versatility allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors in various creative ways, minimizing food waste.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to its delightful taste, the ingredients in this cheeseball provide various nutritional benefits. Cream cheese brings a creamy richness while being a good source of calcium. Dried cranberries offer antioxidants and natural sweetness, complementing the savory pecans.
Pecans are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making them a guilt-free addition to your appetizer. The incorporation of green onions not only adds flavor but also contributes beneficial nutrients and a delightful crunch to the cheeseball.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cheeseball ahead of time?
Yes, the cheeseball can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
→ What can I serve with the cheeseball?
Serve with crackers, fresh fruit, or vegetable sticks.
Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball
Elevate your appetizer game with this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball. Perfectly blended with creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, this festive treat adds a burst of flavor to any gathering. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit for a charming presentation that's sure to impress your guests.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Festive Holiday Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cheeseball Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until well blended.
Shape the mixture into a ball, then roll it in additional chopped pecans to coat the outside.
Wrap the cheeseball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g