Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Save this recipe on:

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the holiday appetizer that everyone raves about! Creamy, tangy, crunchy, and sweet, it checks every box for the perfect party starter. Whether you’re entertaining for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy wine night with friends, this cheese ball brings just the right touch of elegance—and flavor—to the table.

The mix of cream cheese, sharp white cheddar, dried cranberries, and herbs is rolled in a crunchy coat of toasted pecans and fresh parsley. It’s irresistibly festive and comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for those last-minute hosting moments. Pair it with crackers, apple slices, or crusty bread and watch it disappear fast!

---

What Kind of Cheese Should I Use?

Cream cheese provides a rich and spreadable base that balances out the tart sweetness of cranberries and the salty crunch of pecans. For extra depth, I use sharp white cheddar—it melts in subtly with the cream cheese and gives that delightful tangy contrast. Goat cheese or blue cheese can also be mixed in if you’re feeling bold or want to switch things up!

---

Ingredients for the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

• Cream Cheese: The creamy canvas that holds everything together. Let it soften before mixing to make your job easier.
• Sharp White Cheddar: Adds sharpness and depth, balancing the sweet and nutty flavors.
• Dried Cranberries: Chewy and sweet, they bring in that pop of holiday color and contrast.
• Toasted Pecans: Crunchy, buttery, and toasted for max flavor.
• Green Onions: Adds mild sharpness and freshness that lifts the creaminess.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright and earthy, it makes the cheese ball look like a holiday ornament!
• Garlic Powder & Black Pepper: A simple blend of seasonings to round out the flavors.

---

How To Make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Step 1: Soften and Blend the Cheeses

Let the cream cheese come to room temperature—this makes it easier to mix and gives you a smoother texture. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sharp white cheddar. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend until smooth.

Step 2: Stir in the Flavor Boosters

Fold in the chopped dried cranberries, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cheese.

Step 3: Shape into a Ball

Scoop the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and use your hands to shape it into a ball. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—this helps it firm up and makes coating easier.

Step 4: Roll in the Crunchy Coating

While the cheese ball chills, toast your pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 5 minutes). Let them cool, then chop finely and mix with more dried cranberries and parsley. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the pecan mixture until fully coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Place the cheese ball on a platter and serve with your favorite crackers, apple slices, or bread rounds. It’s best served slightly chilled but spreadable!

---

How to Serve and Store Your Cheese Ball

To serve the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball, place it on a serving board surrounded by a variety of crackers, pretzel crisps, or even apple slices for a sweet contrast. A small cheese spreader makes scooping and smearing easier.

Leftovers? Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you’ve already rolled it in pecans, keep in mind the coating may soften a bit over time—still tasty, but a little less crunchy.

Want to prep ahead? You can make the cheese ball up to 3 days in advance. Just roll it in the nut coating right before serving for best texture.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this?

You can prepare the cheese ball mixture up to 3 days ahead. Store it wrapped in the fridge and roll in the pecans just before serving.

Can I freeze the cheese ball?

Freezing isn’t recommended as the texture of the cheese can become grainy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to swap the cheddar for crumbled goat cheese, blue cheese, or even smoked gouda for a flavor twist.

Are there nut-free alternatives?

Yes! You can roll the cheese ball in crushed pretzels, crispy bacon bits, or even chopped sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.

How do I make it more festive?

Add a sprig of rosemary on top, shape it into a wreath, or tuck in extra cranberries for that holiday sparkle.

Can I make it spicy?

Definitely! Add a dash of cayenne or finely chopped jalapeño to the mix for a little kick.

---

Want More Cheese Appetizer Ideas?

If you loved this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball, here are a few more crave-worthy recipes to try next:

• The Cheese Dip That Will Make You Famous – melty, creamy, and loaded with bold flavor.
• Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip – a Mediterranean twist that’s perfect with pita.
• Shut Yo Mouth Sauce – bold and spicy, excellent paired with cheeses.
• Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecanbread – a sweet and nutty bake to complement any cheese board.
• Winter Brittle – crunchy and sweet, this adds a perfect nibble beside your cheese platter.

And if you’re always on the hunt for more creative ideas, check out my Pinterest board Life with Jam where I share new recipes daily—appetizers, sweets, and everything in between!

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or holiday board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different cheese blend? Maybe a spicy twist?

I love seeing how these recipes come to life in your kitchens. Feel free to share photos, feedback, or questions—let’s inspire each other to create and enjoy more together!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: