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Looking for the perfect appetizer that’s quick, delicious, and festive? This Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball is a game-changer. With a combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The best part? You can whip it up in just 10 minutes (plus a little chilling time). Whether it’s for a holiday party or a casual get-together, this cheeseball will leave your guests asking for the recipe!

This Cranberry Cheese Ball is such a perfect party appetizer featuring room-temperature cream cheese, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or contributing to a charcuterie board, this homemade cheese ball is a great choice that will quickly become the star of your table. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a large bowl, you can whip up this tasty appetizer in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick Prep: Mix, chill, and serve—so simple!
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays, game days, your charcuterie board or any gathering.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults love the creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy cheese is irresistible.

Make your next gathering extra special with this Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball. This festive appetizer is proof that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. 

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

Prep time: 10 min

Serves 10

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped

1/2 cup chopped pecans

1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped

1/4 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Extra chopped pecans and cranberries, for coating

Instructions

In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Once chilled, roll the cheeseball in extra chopped pecans and cranberries to coat the outside.

Serve with your favorite crackers, veggie sticks or pita chips.

Give this cranberry cheeseball a try, and don’t forget to share your photos and feedback—I’d love to see how it turns out!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Ingredients:
   Place the room-temperature cream cheese in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Using a hand mixer or an electric mixer, blend the cream cheese until smooth. Add the white cheddar cheese, tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, chives, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the cheese mixture is fully combined.
2. Shape the Cheese Ball:
   Use a silicone spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and place the mixture in the center. Form the mixture into a ball shape. For smaller servings, consider making mini cheese balls.
3. Wrap and Chill:
   Transfer the cheese ball to a large piece of plastic wrap or sheet of plastic wrap. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate on a baking sheet for at least 1 hour to firm up.
4. Coat with Cranberry-Pecan Mixture:
   After chilling, roll the cheese ball in a mixture of the remaining ingredients: chopped pecans and cranberries. This adds festive colors and rich flavor to the outside.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Place the large cheese ball on a serving plate or platter of crackers. Pair it with buttery crackers, pita chips, veggie sticks, or pear slices for a complete spread.

My Top Tips for the Best Results

• Go Fresh: Use your own cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Add a Sweet Touch: A drizzle of maple syrup over the coated cheese ball adds a delightful sweetness.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn.

More Delicious Appetizers

• Adorable Santa Brie Appetizer
• Holiday Appetizer: Christmas Tree Nachos
• The Most Delicious Spinach Dip
• Loaded Baked Potato Dip: The Perfect Game Day Recipe

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