Can I make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball in advance?

Yes! You can easily prepare this cheese ball up to two days in advance. Simply refrigerate it wrapped in plastic wrap, and it will be ready to serve when you need it. For optimal flavor, refrigerate overnight to allow the ingredients to blend perfectly.

Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, you can use walnuts, almonds, or pistachios as alternatives. Each nut will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the cheese ball, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s easy to make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball vegan! Simply substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free version, and replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or skip it altogether. The cranberries, pecans, and cinnamon will still deliver the delicious flavor, making it a great option for plant-based diets.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball – A Festive, Easy Holiday Appetizer

Name: Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Description

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy—a festive appetizer that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s my go-to for holiday gatherings, and it never fails to impress. The dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness, while the Parmesan and pecans bring a delicious, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cream cheese. Whether it’s for a family get-together or a holiday party, this cheese ball is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages!

Ingredients

Scale

1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, Parmesan cheese, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until well blended and smooth.
Shape the cheese mixture into a round ball. Use plastic wrap to help shape it evenly if desired.
Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best results, leave it in the fridge overnight.
When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and unwrap. Pair with your favorite crackers or slices of bread for a delightful holiday treat.
For a festive touch, roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans or powdered sugar to add extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Notes

Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
For best results, chill the cheese ball overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Use plastic wrap to form the cheese ball evenly and avoid a messy hands-on approach.
For variations, try adding bacon or fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the mixture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of the cheese ball
Calories: 160
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 110mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 20mg