Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with Crackers
Equipment
- Mixing bowl A medium to large-sized bowl for combining everything
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon To mix the cheeses thoroughly
- Plastic wrap To help shape and chill the cheese ball
- Small skillet or toaster oven To toast the pecans for added depth of flavor
- Sharp knife For chopping the cranberries, nuts, and herbs
Ingredients
For the Cheese Ball Base
- 16 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup goat cheese or feta, for a saltier flavor
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mix-ins
- ½ cup dried cranberries chopped
- ½ cup pecans finely chopped and toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives finely sliced
For the Coating
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries chopped
- ⅓ cup toasted pecans chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley optional for a pop of color
To Serve
- Assorted crackers: Think multigrain water crackers, or butter rounds
Optional extras: celery sticks, apple slices, or pretzel rods for variety
Instructions
Toast the Pecans
- Place your chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 4–5 minutes until fragrant and golden. Remove and let cool.
Combine the Cheese Base
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, goat cheese, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix until creamy and fully combined.
Fold in the Flavor
- Stir in the chopped dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and fresh chives. Mix gently to distribute everything evenly throughout the cheese mixture.
Shape the Cheese Ball
- Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap and scoop the cheese mixture into the center. Using the wrap, form it into a round ball. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to tighten and shape. Chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to firm up.
Roll and Coat
- Before serving, unwrap the cheese ball. On a plate, mix together the coating ingredients: chopped cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Roll the cheese ball in the mixture until fully coated, pressing lightly to adhere.
Serve with Style
- Transfer to a serving platter and surround with your favorite crackers, pretzels, and fresh-cut veggies. If you're going for a Christmas charcuterie board, nestle the cheese ball among sliced meats, other cheeses, fruits, and nuts for a festive look.