Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball

Name: Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; Crackers or fresh fruit for serving

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Elevate your appetizer game with this quick and easy Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball. Packed with creamy cheese and the delightful crunch of pecans, this festive treat is perfect for holiday gatherings and casual entertaining alike. Serve it with crackers or fresh fruit for a beautiful and delicious addition to your cheese board that everyone will love.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-27T06:13:31.450Z

This cheese ball is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that is sure to impress your guests. The sweetness of the cranberries pairs wonderfully with the nuttiness of the pecans, making it a standout on any cheese board.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether you're hosting a festive holiday party or simply gathering with friends for a casual evening, the Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball is an ideal appetizer. Its vibrant colors and appealing presentation make it a standout on any cheese board. Not only does it taste delicious, but it also adds a touch of sophistication to your spread that your guests will appreciate.

This recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion, from Thanksgiving dinner to New Year’s Eve celebrations. You can customize it by incorporating various nuts or dried fruits to match your guests' preferences. The result is a crowd-pleasing dish that can effortlessly adapt to different themes and flavors.

Easy to Make Ahead

One of the best aspects of the Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip this treat up in no time. Plus, it can be made in advance, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your gathering. Prepare it the night before, and simply refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Making this cheese ball ahead of time ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. The combination of tangy cream cheese, savory cheddar, and the sweetness of cranberries becomes even more pronounced after a few hours in the fridge. Your guests will be delighted by the rich and dynamic flavors that have developed by the time they take their first bite.

How to Serve Impeccably

Presentation matters, especially when it comes to appetizers. To elevate your cheese ball, consider surrounding it with an array of colorful crackers, fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes, and additional toppings such as extra pecans or herbs for garnish. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also offers a delightful variety for your guests to enjoy.

Serving the cheese ball at room temperature brings out its creamy texture, making it easier to spread on crackers or fruit. If you are serving it outdoors, keep it in a cooler or shaded area to maintain the ideal temperature. Don’t forget to provide a spreading knife or small utensils to aid your guests in serving themselves without any mess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
Crackers or fresh fruit for serving

Mix all ingredients together to form the cheese ball.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your cheese ball:

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Cheese Ball

Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a ball. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Serve

Once firm, unwrap the cheese ball and serve it with crackers or fresh fruit. Enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious cheese ball!

Culinary Substitutes

If you want to put a unique twist on this classic recipe, consider substituting the pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Each nut variety will impart a distinct flavor and texture to the cheese ball. Similarly, swapping out the dried cranberries for dried cherries or apricots can offer a different sweet and tangy profile.

For those watching their cheese intake or looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead. This will create a slightly different taste but can maintain the overall creaminess and richness that make this dish appealing.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), storing them is simple. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Ensure it’s well sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any other flavors from the fridge.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes prior to serving. This will restore its creamy texture and make it more enjoyable to eat. You can also consider repurposing any extras by adding them to salads or pasta dishes for a flavorful kick.

Pairing Suggestions

To truly appreciate the flavors of the Quick Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Ball, consider pairing it with wines or beverages that complement its taste. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity red like Pinot Noir, can enhance your tasting experience. The acidity and fruit notes in these wines balance perfectly with the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the cranberries.

For a non-alcoholic option, serve the cheese ball alongside sparkling water infused with lemon or berry. This refreshing drink pairs beautifully, helping to cleanse the palate and keep the focus on the delightful flavors of your cheese ball.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

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

→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?

It pairs well with crackers, bread, and fresh fruit.