Cranberry-Pecan Cheeseball is a festive and flavorful appetizer that combines creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans into one irresistible holiday treat. It’s perfect for Christmas parties, family gatherings, or any celebration where you want to impress guests with something delicious and easy to make.
Ingredients
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
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½ cup pecans, finely chopped (plus extra for coating)
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2 green onions, finely sliced
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Crackers, pretzels, or sliced baguette, for serving
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Chill time: 1 hour
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Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serving
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Serves 8–10
Instructions
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Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Beat or stir until smooth and creamy. -
Add Flavorings:
Mix in cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. -
Shape the Cheeseball:
Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into a ball using your hands, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. -
Coat with Pecans:
Once chilled, roll the cheeseball in additional chopped pecans until fully coated. -
Serve:
Place on a serving platter with crackers, pretzels, or toasted baguette slices. Garnish with a few cranberries or a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
Tips
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Use a mix of white cheddar and cream cheese for a more balanced flavor.
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Add a drizzle of honey over the top for a sweet-savory contrast.
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Make it a day ahead — it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 210
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Protein: 6g
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Fat: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 5g
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Sugar: 3g
This Cranberry-Pecan Cheeseball is creamy, crunchy, and bursting with holiday flavor — a simple yet elegant appetizer that brings festive charm to every table.
