If you’re looking for a festive centerpiece that’s easy to pull together and guaranteed to disappear at any gathering, the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball is about to become your new go-to. Imagine creamy, tangy cheese studded with ruby-red cranberries, buttery toasted pecans, and fresh green onions, all wrapped in a colorful, crunchy coating. This make-ahead wonder is loaded with flavor and lots of wow-factor—whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to surprise your friends on game night, this irresistible appetizer gets everyone dipping and raving!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients, perfectly balanced textures, and a pop of color—each component of this Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball brings its own magic. You don’t need anything fancy, just a few well-chosen items that work together for creamy, nutty, and tangy perfection.
- Cream cheese (2 packages, 8 oz each, softened): The rich, velvety foundation that holds everything together and gives the ball its luscious texture.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Brings bold, tangy flavor and the perfect cheesy stretch to complement the cream cheese base.
- Dried cranberries (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds sweet, chewy bursts of fruitiness that pop with every bite and give beautiful color.
- Chopped pecans (1/2 cup, toasted): Toasted for maximum flavor, these add crunch and a warm, nutty richness you’ll love.
- Green onions (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Bright, mild onion flavor and a touch of green add freshness and balance.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with a gentle savory kick that isn’t overpowering.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Extra oomph for the savory notes—a little goes a long way.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Intensifies all the flavors for optimum deliciousness.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle hint of heat and dimension in every bite.
- Coating: The show-stopping finish—1/4 cup chopped dried cranberries, 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans, and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for freshness and color.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball
Step 1: Combine the Base
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and adding your softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped cranberries, toasted pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a sturdy spatula (or even clean hands) and thoroughly blend all those delicious ingredients together—you want them fully combined, so every scoop gets a bit of everything.
Step 2: Shape into a Ball
Once your mixture is well-mixed and looking speckled with goodies, it’s time for the fun part! Gather the mixture into one big mound and use your hands or a spatula to gently shape it into a round ball. Don’t worry about perfect symmetry; rustic is charming here. If the mixture feels too sticky, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before shaping.
Step 3: Coat for Color and Crunch
In a shallow bowl, combine the remaining chopped dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and parsley. Gently roll your cheese ball in the coating, pressing lightly to ensure every side is covered with that gorgeous, festive layer. The cranberries and parsley really make the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball pop visually, so don’t skip this step!
Step 4: Chill to Set
Wrap the cheese ball snugly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This rest gives it time to firm up (making it easier to serve and spread), and lets all those flavors mingle and get even better. If prepping ahead, you can leave it in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, unwrap the cheese ball and place it on your favorite platter. Surround it with an assortment of crackers, pretzels, or sliced veggies, and watch your guests dive in. Snap a photo before it’s gone—the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball always disappears fast!
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball
Garnishes
A little extra flair goes a long way! Right before serving, sprinkle more chopped parsley or pecans over the top for extra color, or tuck a few whole cranberries around the base. A tidy ring of crackers around your cheese ball instantly makes your spread look professional and inviting.
Side Dishes
This showstopper pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh veggies like sliced cucumber, celery, or sweet bell pepper strips. Try adding a basket of artisan bread rounds or crunchy gluten-free pretzel sticks so everyone has something to scoop up all that creamy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball into a charming holiday centerpiece by shaping it into a wreath, log, or even mini bite-size balls—perfect for individual servings. For parties, offer several small cheese balls with different coatings, or serve alongside jams, spicy mustards, or tangy fruit preserves to let guests customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (it’s rare!), simply wrap the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 4 days and makes an amazing quick snack or sandwich spread.
Freezing
Great news: the cheese ball freezes surprisingly well! To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in an airtight freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving—just give the coating a fresh roll in more pecans or parsley if needed for extra vibrancy.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball, since it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature. Just let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving for the ideal creamy, spreadable texture.
FAQs
Can I make the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheese ball is actually even better when made ahead, as the flavors have time to mingle. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance—just keep it wrapped and refrigerated until showtime.
What can I serve with this cheese ball besides crackers?
Try pairing it with crisp veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers, or go for mini toasts and pretzel rods. It’s also fantastic spread onto bagels or inside sandwiches for something different.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can easily substitute pecans with toasted walnuts or almonds. For those with nut allergies, leave out the nuts entirely—the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball will still be packed with flavor and texture from the other mix-ins!
How do I toast pecans?
Toasting pecans is simple: spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 6–8 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant. Let cool, then chop and use as directed.
Is the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball gluten-free?
Yes, the cheese ball itself is completely gluten-free! Just be sure to pair it with gluten-free crackers, bread, or veggie dippers for a snack everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball enough—it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make, beautiful to serve, and bursting with festive flavors. If you give it a try, don’t be surprised if it steals the spotlight at your next gathering. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy, sweet-and-savory bite!
Print
Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball is a delightful holiday appetizer perfect for festive gatherings. Creamy, tangy, and packed with sweet and savory flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
Cheese Ball:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
- 1/4 cup green onions (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Coating:
- 1/4 cup chopped dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Mix the Cheese Ball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Form the mixture into a ball using clean hands or a spatula.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix the additional cranberries, pecans, and parsley.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: Roll the cheese ball in the coating mixture until fully covered.
- Chill and Serve: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. Serve chilled with crackers, pretzels, or sliced vegetables.
Notes
- You can make this cheese ball up to 2 days in advance.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Substitute walnuts or almonds if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
