If you’re looking for a festive and delicious appetizer to impress your guests during the holiday season, these Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls are just what you need! These delightful cheese balls are made with creamy cheese and a blend of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, making them a perfect savory treat for any gathering.
What makes these cheese balls so special is their rich flavor and beautiful presentation. These Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls are not only easy to make but also add a touch of elegance to your holiday spread!
Resume of the Recipe
These Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls feature a creamy cheese mixture rolled in a coating of dried cranberries and chopped pecans. Ready in about 20 minutes, these delightful bites are perfect for holiday parties or casual gatherings!
With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up these scrumptious cheese balls in no time. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Exciting Story:
The first time I made Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls, it was for a holiday get-together with family, and I wanted to create an appetizer that was both delicious and visually appealing. As I mixed the creamy cheese with cranberries and nuts, the colorful mixture instantly brightened my kitchen, making everyone excited to try it!
Once rolled into balls and served with crackers, they looked absolutely beautiful, and the first bite was a flavor explosion—the creamy cheese paired with the sweetness of the cranberries and the crunch of the pecans was simply irresistible. These Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls have since become a holiday tradition in our home!
Why These Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls?
- Deliciously Festive: The combination of cheese, cranberries, and pecans creates a delightful flavor profile that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls
- Mix the Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, garlic powder, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Cheese Balls: Use your hands to form the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the finely chopped dried cranberries and pecans for the coating.
- Coat the Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing gently to ensure they are well coated.
- Chill: Place the coated cheese balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls are ready to be served! Arrange them on a platter with crackers or sliced baguette for dipping.
Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to add herbs or spices that you enjoy, such as chives or cayenne pepper for a little heat!
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Cheeses: You can substitute the sharp cheddar with other cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Add Other Nuts: Consider using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of added sugar in the cranberries for a lighter option.
Closing
And there you have it! These Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls are a deliciously festive appetizer that will impress anyone who tries them. Don’t forget to let us know how your cheese balls turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more delightful holiday goodies!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can I store leftovers?
These cheese balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. - Can I freeze the cheese balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncoated cheese balls for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before coating and serving. - What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheese balls can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. - How do I know when the cheese balls are done?
The cheese balls are ready to serve once they are firm and coated with the cranberry-pecan mixture. - Can I add other flavors?
Yes! Feel free to add spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for extra flavor. - What if I want to make it spicier?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can give your cheese balls a kick! - What sides pair well with these cheese balls?
Serve with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or a charcuterie board for a delightful pairing! - How can I make this more festive?
Consider using holiday-themed cookie cutters to shape the cheese balls! - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
These cheese balls are best enjoyed cold; it’s not recommended to reheat them. - Can I use flavored cheeses in the recipe?
Yes! You can use flavored cream cheese or cheddar for a different taste. - How can I enhance the flavors?
Consider adding a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze over the top before serving for an extra touch!
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls
Course: All Word Recipes4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
For the Cheese Balls:
8 oz 8 cream cheese, softened
1 cup 1 shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup 1/2 dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup 1/2 pecans, finely chopped
1 tablespoon 1 fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon 1 garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
1/2 cup 1/2 dried cranberries, finely chopped
1/2 cup 1/2 pecans, finely chopped
Directions
- Mix the Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, garlic powder, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Cheese Balls: Use your hands to form the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the finely chopped dried cranberries and pecans for the coating.
- Coat the Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing gently to ensure they are well coated.
- Chill: Place the coated cheese balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls are ready to be served! Arrange them on a platter with crackers or sliced baguette for dipping.
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