This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a delightful appetizer perfect for your Christmas Eve gathering. Combining cream cheese, cranberries, and pecans, it offers a festive touch to your holiday table.
The recipe is simple and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal Christmas Eve recipe that will impress your guests.
Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
This cheese ball features a creamy base rolled in a mixture of dried cranberries and chopped pecans, providing a sweet and nutty flavor. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare and serves 8-10 people.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional pecans and cranberries for coating
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Use your hands to form the mixture into a ball shape. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the wrap and roll it in additional chopped pecans and cranberries to coat the outside.
- Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter with crackers or sliced baguette. Enjoy your festive appetizer!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8-10 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
