Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
User Reviews
4.7
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Description
The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball features a blend of cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese complemented by chopped dried cranberries and toasted pecans. The addition of chopped chives or green onions and garlic powder creates a savory undertone that balances the sweet and nutty flavors. After combining all ingredients, the mixture is chilled to firm up and then rolled in a coating of remaining cranberries, pecans, and chives to add texture and a fresh appearance. This preparation results in a rich, creamy center with a slightly crunchy and fruity exterior.
To prepare, pecans are first toasted to enhance their aroma and crunch. The cheese mixture is then shaped into a ball and refrigerated to set properly, ensuring it holds its shape when served. This cheese ball is best served with a variety of dippable accompaniments like crackers, pita chips, pretzels, and fresh vegetables like carrots or celery. It makes for a versatile appetizer or snack suitable for social occasions.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded, white, sharp
- 1 cup dried cranberries chopped and divided
- 1 cup pecans chopped and toasted *optional, brand Fisher’s Nuts
- 1/4 cup chives chopped, or green onions
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- To Toast Pecans: Pre-heat oven to 375F. Place chopped pecans on a baking tray and bake for 5 minutes or until aromatic. Remove from oven and set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ½ toasted pecans, ½ cup dried cranberries, chive or green onion, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Place mixture in the center of a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper and cover completely with wrap while forming it into a ball shape. Place in fridge until ready to serve.
- Just before serving, combine remaining ½ cup pecans, ½ dried cranberries, and 2 tablespoon chives on a flat surface or cutting board. Unwrap the ball and roll in cranberry-pecan mixture.
- Serve with crackers, pita chips, pretzels, carrots or celery.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 192 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0.5cup | |
| Calories | 192kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 18g | 6% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 41mg | 14% |
| Sodium | 122mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 60mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 14g | 28% |
| Vitamin A | 510IU | 10% |
| Calcium | 39mg | 4% |
| Iron | 0.3mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.7
You'll Also Love
