A festive and make-ahead appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring cream cheese, cheddar, cranberries, and pecans for a sweet and savory crunch.
Author:Sarah Peterson
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:15 min
Yield:1 cheese ball (serves 8-10) 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:No Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped pecans, divided
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: extra pecans and cranberries for rolling
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
Stir in 1/4 cup of the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
If desired, spread additional chopped pecans and dried cranberries on a plate.
Shape the cheese mixture into a ball.
Roll the cheese ball in the extra pecans and cranberries to coat the outside.
Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
Serve with your favorite crackers or bread.
Notes
This cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance.
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened.
Experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits for variations.