Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

Name: Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Serves 10
Ingredients: 2 cups cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional); Crackers or fresh fruit for serving

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball. Creamy, tangy, and studded with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, this cheese ball is perfect for spreading on crackers or serving with fresh fruit. Easy to prepare and beautifully festive, it's sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your holiday entertaining repertoire.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2025-12-01T14:30:07.755Z

This cheese ball has become a favorite at our holiday gatherings, often disappearing before the main course!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball is not just a holiday treat; it's a versatile appetizer that can elevate any gathering. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, a family get-together, or a casual game night, this cheese ball fits seamlessly into the menu. Its vibrant colors and appealing textures will attract attention and tantalize taste buds, making it hard for your guests to resist reaching for more.

The combination of sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans adds a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese mixture. Serving it alongside an array of crackers and fresh fruits enhances the flavor experience, allowing guests to customize their bites. This cheese ball is not only delicious but also visually appealing, providing an elegant touch to your spread.

Easy to Prepare

One of the best things about this cheese ball recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With minimal ingredients and quick prep time, you can whip this up even on short notice. Just combine the ingredients, shape the mixture, and let it chill while you finish preparing the rest of your feast. Your guests will think you spent hours creating this delightful treat!

This no-bake recipe makes it perfect for those who may not have the time to cook elaborate dishes. Plus, it's a great make-ahead option, allowing you to prepare it a day or two in advance. Just store it wrapped in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve, ensuring you have one less thing to worry about during your busy holiday planning.

Taste the Holidays

The flavors in this cheese ball truly embody the spirit of the holiday season. The tartness of dried cranberries provides a festive touch, while the richness of cream cheese and cheddar gives it a comforting, homey feel. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, and sweet that is bound to spark joy and nostalgia among your guests.

Pair this cheese ball with a glass of sparkling wine or a warm spiced cider, and you have a perfect starter for your holiday meal. The refreshing cranberries and the earthy pecans complement the drink selections beautifully, making this appetizer not just a snack but a full festive experience.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Ingredients

2 cups cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
Crackers or fresh fruit for serving

Instructions

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and chives (if using). Mix until well blended.

Shape the Cheese Ball

Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to form the mixture into a ball shape. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Serve

Once chilled, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in additional chopped pecans if desired. Serve with crackers or fresh fruit.

Storage Tips

To keep your Festive Cranberry and Pecan Cheese Ball fresh, store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week, making it perfect for ongoing holiday gatherings or leftovers to enjoy. Just be sure to reseal and refrigerate promptly after serving to maintain its creamy texture and delightful flavor.

If you have extra cheese ball left over, consider using it in different ways. It can be added to salads for a creamy touch or used as a delicious filling in sandwiches or wraps. This not only minimizes waste but also transforms your leftovers into new, exciting meals.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize this cheese ball recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a touch of sweetness, you could mix in a bit of honey or maple syrup, which pairs beautifully with the creamy cheeses and tart cranberries.

For those with nut allergies or preferences, you can either omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness without worrying about allergies, allowing your festive feast to be inclusive and satisfying for all guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with a cheese ball?

Crackers, fresh fruits, and veggie sticks pair wonderfully with cheese balls.