Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball

Name: Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your snack game with this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball. Creamy, tangy, and topped with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, this cheese ball is perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in. Serve it with crispy crackers or fresh fruit for a beautiful and delicious appetizer that everyone will love!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-27T06:13:31.004Z

This Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball is not only a visual delight but also a flavor-packed snack that can easily be made ahead of time. The combination of cream cheese, cranberries, and pecans offers a delightful contrast in texture and taste, making it a hit at any gathering.

A Perfect Party Appetizer

Hosting a gathering? The Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball is an ideal choice. Its vibrant color and delightful texture create an inviting presentation that captures attention. Guests will appreciate the combination of creamy and crunchy elements, making this cheeseball a standout among typical party fare.

Not only does this cheeseball taste amazing, but it also offers versatility in serving. You can pair it with various dippables like crackers, pretzels, or even sliced baguette. Alternatively, serve it alongside fresh fruits, such as apple slices or grapes, to complement the tartness of the cranberries.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

The beauty of this cheeseball lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The creamy cream cheese base contrasts beautifully with the crunch of pecans and the chewiness of dried cranberries. This delightful combination creates a sensory experience that not only satisfies the palate but also leaves a lasting impression on your guests.

The addition of garlic and onion powder introduces subtle savory notes, perfectly offsetting the sweetness of the cranberries. This flavor profile is not only pleasing to the tongue but also allows this cheeseball to be enjoyed by both sweet and savory lovers alike.

Easy to Customize

One of the best features of the Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball is its flexibility. You can easily modify the ingredients based on your tastes or dietary preferences. Consider swapping out pecans for walnuts or even adding spices like cayenne pepper for a little kick. Different types of cheese can also be incorporated to create unique flavor variations.

For those looking to add a healthy twist, you might include additional chopped vegetables like bell peppers or scallions. These small changes can turn this appetizer into an exciting, tailored dish that reflects your culinary creativity.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the cheeseball:

Cheeseball Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start making your cheeseball!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cheeseball masterpiece:

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Add Cranberries and Pecans

Fold in the chopped cranberries and half of the pecans, mixing until well distributed throughout the cheese mixture.

Shape the Cheeseball

Use your hands to form the mixture into a ball shape and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up.

Coat with Remaining Pecans

Once chilled, remove the cheeseball from the wrap and roll it in the remaining chopped pecans until fully coated.

Serve

Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy with crackers or fresh fruit!

Enjoy your delicious cranberries and pecans cheeseball!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors of the cheeseball will actually deepen after sitting for a bit, making it a great option for meal prep. It can last up to a week, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this wonderful snack.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cheeseball before coating it with pecans. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and coat it with the pecans before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To amp up your serving experience, consider incorporating a variety of accompaniments. Alongside the cheeseball, add an assortment of gourmet crackers, fresh vegetables, and even charcuterie options such as slices of salami or prosciutto to create a well-rounded platter.

A drizzle of honey can also elevate the flavors, adding an extra touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cheese and cranberries. Additionally, experience the joy of serving it with a side of homemade jams or chutneys, providing another layer of flavor and making your appetizer display a feast for the eyes and palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this cheeseball can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with it?

Serve with crackers, fresh fruit, or sliced vegetables for a delightful appetizer.