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Crowd-Pleasing Cranberry Cheese Ball with Candied Pecans

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A creamy, tangy, and sweet cheese ball studded with dried cranberries and coated in crunchy candied pecans. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or any occasion where you want a showstopping appetizer that comes together in just 15 minutes of active prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced (green parts only)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Assorted crackers, pretzels, or apple slices for serving

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Take cream cheese out of fridge 1-2 hours before starting, or cut into cubes and microwave on low in 10-second intervals until soft but not melted.
  2. Candy the pecans: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, stirring until bubbly. Add pecan halves and stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until glossy and caramelized. Spread on parchment paper to cool completely (about 15 minutes).
  3. Make the cheese base: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add shredded cheddar, chopped cranberries, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix on low until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Shape the cheese ball: Place a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Scoop cheese mixture onto the center. Use the wrap to form into a ball, gathering edges and twisting the top. Shape gently through the plastic into a round ball about 5-6 inches in diameter.
  5. Chill the cheese ball: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days.
  6. Chop the candied pecans: Once pecans are completely cool, roughly chop them into a mix of small pieces and larger bits.
  7. Roll the cheese ball in coating: Spread chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap chilled cheese ball and roll in pecans, pressing lightly to adhere. Pat on extra nuts to cover completely.
  8. Serve or store: Place on serving platter. If not serving immediately, wrap loosely in plastic and refrigerate. Remove from fridge 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Notes

For best results, ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. Chill the cheese ball for at least 2 hours before rolling in pecans. Serve at room temperature for optimal spreadability. The cheese ball can be made up to 2 days ahead (without coating) and the pecans candied separately.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry cheese ball, candied pecans, holiday appetizer, make-ahead appetizer, cream cheese appetizer

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/crowd-pleasing-cranberry-cheese-ball-with-candied-pecans/