Description
Cranberry Pecan Delight Cheese Ball brings festive cheer to holiday gatherings with its creamy blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese. Studded with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, this appetizer promises to be the star of any celebration you host.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 8-ounce (226 grams) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Gather softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, pecans, Parmesan cheese, sugar, and ground cinnamon in a spacious mixing bowl to prepare the foundational elements of the cheese ball.
- Thoroughly blend all ingredients using a sturdy spatula or hand mixer, ensuring each component is uniformly distributed throughout the creamy mixture, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
- Gently manipulate the mixture with clean, cool hands, carefully molding it into a symmetrical, compact spherical shape that holds its form without crumbling.
- Smooth the exterior surface of the cheese ball with delicate fingertip movements, creating an aesthetically pleasing and even texture that will look appetizing when served.
- Wrap the formed cheese ball carefully in plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, then refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours or ideally overnight to allow flavors to harmonize and texture to firm.
- Prior to serving, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly and enhance its spreadable consistency.
- Arrange the cheese ball on a decorative serving platter, surrounding it with an assortment of crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or artisan bread to provide delightful accompaniments for guests to enjoy.
Notes
- Elevate your appetizer game with this festive cheese ball that blends sweet and savory flavors in one delightful bite.
- Dried cranberries and pecans provide a perfect balance of tartness and crunch, making this a crowd-pleasing party starter.
- Chilling overnight intensifies the blend of spices and allows the cream cheese to set, ensuring a smooth and spreadable texture.
- Prepare this appetizer up to 2 days in advance, saving you time and reducing stress when entertaining guests.
- Versatile serving option that pairs beautifully with crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, maintaining its delicious flavor and creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 347 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 262 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg