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Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Healthy Fact of the Day

Pecans provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants while adding satisfying crunch. Cranberries offer vitamin C and compounds that support urinary tract health, making this indulgent appetizer more nutritious than it appears.
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Recipe by Daily Disher

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball features cream cheese and sharp cheddar blended with dried cranberries and green onions, rolled in chopped pecans for a festive appetizer.

Course: AppetizerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
3.7 from 7 votes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal
Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

    Ingredients

    • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

    • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

    • 0.5 cup dried cranberries, chopped

    • 0.5 cup pecans, finely chopped

    • 0.25 cup green onions, finely sliced

    • 1 tsp garlic powder

    • 1 tsp onion powder

    • 1 pinch salt

    • 1 pinch black pepper

    Directions

    • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with grated cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or a mixer to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
    • Stir in the chopped cranberries and sliced green onions into the cheese mixture. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is uniform.
    • Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into a ball using the plastic wrap to assist in molding it neatly.
    • Scatter the chopped pecans onto a clean surface or a plate. Roll the cheese ball over the pecans, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well and coat the cheese ball evenly.
    • Wrap the cheese ball in a fresh piece of plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This helps it firm up, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
    • Remove from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly. Unwrap and serve with your choice of crackers or sliced fresh vegetables.

    Nutrition Facts

    • Total number of serves: 4
    • Calories: 210kcal
    • Cholesterol: 0mg
    • Sodium: 620mg
    • Potassium: 400mg
    • Sugar: 8g
    • Protein: 6g
    • Calcium: 60mg
    • Iron: 2mg

    This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the ultimate party appetizer that combines creamy, tangy cheese with sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy pecans in a presentation that’s both festive and delicious. The blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar creates a rich, flavorful base that’s perfectly balanced by chewy dried cranberries and fresh green onions, while aromatic garlic and onion powder add depth. Rolling the ball in finely chopped pecans creates a beautiful coating that adds textural contrast and nutty richness to every bite—making this a holiday table staple that disappears as fast as you can set it out.

    3.7 from 7 votes

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