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Showstopping Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: The Ultimate Holiday Appetizer

A creamy cranberry pecan cheese ball coated in nuts and dried cranberries, with a section scooped out, sitting on a white plate.
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Make your next party a hit with this easy, make-ahead Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball. This sweet and savory appetizer combines creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients

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  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 1 cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped, divided
  • Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley for color

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until completely smooth and well combined.
  2. Stir in the finely chopped dried cranberries and half of the chopped pecans into the cheese mixture. Mix just until they are evenly distributed.
  3. Place the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Shape the mixture into a ball.
  4. In a shallow dish, spread the remaining half of the chopped pecans (and parsley, if using) in an even layer.
  5. Roll the cheese ball in the pecan mixture until it is completely coated on all sides.
  6. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days, to allow it to firm up.
  7. Before serving, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. Serve with crackers, apple slices, or vegetable sticks.

Notes

  • To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. Let them cool before chopping.
  • For a festive presentation, arrange the cheese ball on a platter surrounded by colorful crackers and fresh fruit slices. This makes a beautiful centerpiece for your festive appetizer board.
  • If you are making this ahead of time, wrap it tightly and keep it chilled. This is fantastic make ahead party food.
  • If you want a slightly different flavor, try adding 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture for a subtle smoky note.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/cranberry-pecan-cheese-ball-recipe-easy/