The cranberry pecan cheeseball is a delightful and festive appetizer that beautifully combines creamy, tangy cheese with the sweet and tart flavor of cranberries, creating a perfect balance that is both rich and refreshing. This dish is typically shaped into a ball or log,
making it not only easy to serve but also visually appealing, especially when adorned with a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
When it comes time to serve, the cheeseball can be rolled in additional chopped pecans to create a beautiful, textured exterior that adds even more flavor. Accompanied by an array of dippers—such as crackers,
sliced baguette, fresh fruit, or vegetables—the cranberry pecan cheeseball becomes a centerpiece for any gathering, whether it’s a holiday party, a potluck, or a casual get-together.
The combination of flavors and textures in the cranberry pecan cheeseball makes it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to a variety of palates. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of creaminess, sweetness, and nuttiness, leaving a lingering satisfaction that invites guests back for more.
Its versatility also allows for creativity, as you can experiment with different types of cheese, add spices, or incorporate other ingredients like orange zest or a hint of cinnamon to elevate the dish further.
In essence, the cranberry pecan cheeseball is not just an appetizer; it’s an experience that brings people together, igniting conversations and creating memories around the table. Its festive appearance and delectable flavor make it a must-have for any occasion, embodying the spirit of celebration and joy.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup white sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup dried cranberries chopped and divided
- 1 cup Fisher’s Nuts pecans chopped and toasted *optional
- 1/4 cup chives or green onions chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
To Toast Pecans: Pre-heat oven to 375F. Place chopped pecans on a baking tray and bake for 5 minutes or until aromatic. Remove from oven and set aside.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ½ toasted pecans, ½ cup dried cranberries, chive or green onion, and garlic powder until well combined.
Place mixture in the center of a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper and cover completely with wrap while forming it into a ball shape. Place in fridge until ready to serve.
Just before serving, combine remaining ½ cup pecans, ½ dried cranberries, and 2 tablespoon chives on a flat surface or cutting board. Unwrap the ball and roll in cranberry-pecan mixture.
Serve with crackers, pita chips, pretzels, carrots or celery.