Can I make the Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball ahead of time?

Absolutely. This cheese ball is perfect for making in advance. Simply prepare and roll it, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving so the texture softens.

Can I make this recipe without goat cheese?

Yes! If you're not a fan of goat cheese or want a milder flavor, substitute half or all of the goat cheese with cream cheese . You’ll still get a smooth, creamy texture with a slightly different flavor profile. You can also experiment with ricotta or mascarpone for an even creamier alternative.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free or low-carb?

The cheese ball itself is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs , so it all comes down to what you serve it with. For a gluten-free option, pair it with gluten-free crackers or fresh veggies like celery, cucumber rounds, or bell pepper strips. For a low-carb platter, skip the crackers entirely and opt for crunchy raw vegetables or cheese crisps.

Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball – Best Holiday Appetizer

Name: Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz goat cheese (two 8 oz logs): provides a creamy, tangy base; ⅓ cup pecans, finely chopped: adds crunch and nutty flavor; ⅓ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped: adds sweetness and chewiness; ¼ tsp salt: enhances overall flavor; ½ tsp cracked black pepper: adds a subtle spice and depth; 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped: provides a fresh, earthy aroma; ½ tsp fresh rosemary, chopped: brings a piney, woodsy flavor; Optional: 8 oz cream cheese (for a milder flavor); Assorted crackers or sliced veggies (for serving)

Description

This festive Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is a creamy, tangy, and sweet holiday appetizer made with goat cheese, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings and can be made ahead for easy entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz goat cheese (two 8 oz logs): provides a creamy, tangy base
⅓ cup pecans, finely chopped: adds crunch and nutty flavor
⅓ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped: adds sweetness and chewiness
¼ tsp salt: enhances overall flavor
½ tsp cracked black pepper: adds a subtle spice and depth
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped: provides a fresh, earthy aroma
½ tsp fresh rosemary, chopped: brings a piney, woodsy flavor
Optional: 8 oz cream cheese (for a milder flavor)
Assorted crackers or sliced veggies (for serving)

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Instructions

Finely dice the dried cranberries and pecans. Place them on a plate and mix with chopped thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Allow goat cheese (and optional cream cheese) to soften at room temperature.
In a medium bowl, mix the cheeses together until well combined and smooth.
Shape the cheese mixture into a large ball using your hands or spatula.
Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing gently to coat it thoroughly.
Chill the cheese ball for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Serve with your choice of crackers or fresh vegetable slices.

Notes

Make mini cheese balls for individual servings (makes 12–15 minis).
You can replace half or all goat cheese with cream cheese for a milder flavor.
Prepare up to 2 days ahead and store wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge.
For added sweetness, drizzle honey over the cheese ball before serving.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 tbsp goat cheese
Calories: 258 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 375 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 15 g
Cholesterol: 35 mg