Cranberry Cheeseball

This cranberry cheeseball is a delicious combination of cream cheese, savory herbs, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans. It’s a great holiday appetizer for your friends and family.

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Adding this cranberry pecan cheese ball recipe is the perfect holiday appetizer. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s easy to whip up and will impress your guests. The sweet and tart flavors of the cranberries pair perfectly with the crunchy pecans and creamy cheese.

If you love dips, then next you should try this Slow Cooker Hamburger Cheese Dip or for a sweet treat this Caramel Apple Cream Cheese Dip.

Ingredients

This is an overview of the ingredients that you need to make this recipe. You can find the full list of ingredients in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

cream cheese, cheddar cheese, dried cranberries,pecans, green onion, garlic powder, Salt and pepper

Cream Cheese: The creamy base of any cheeseball! Make sure it’s softened to room temperature so it’s easy to mix.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar (yellow or white) gives the cheeseball its tangy, bold flavor. Grating fresh cheese works best, but pre-shredded is fine too.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add sweetness and pops of tart flavor, plus they look great in the mix.
Pecans: Chopped pecans give a nice crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting them slightly brings out even more taste!
Green Onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a splash of color.
Garlic Powder: Just a pinch adds a savory kick to the creamy cheese mixture.
Salt and Pepper: A little goes a long way to bring out all the flavors in this appetizer.

Instructions

This is an overview of the steps needed to make this recipe. The full instructions are available in the recipe card.

softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in bowl

In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap

Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap.

cheeseball in extra chopped pecans and cranberries to coat the outside.

Once chilled, roll the cheeseball in extra chopped pecans and cranberries to coat the outside.

Serve with your favorite crackers.

Storage

Storage – If you have any leftovers, wrap the cheeseball in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cheeseball for longer storage, and thaw it in the fridge before serving.

Freezing – To freeze the cheeseball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Thawing – To thaw the cheeseball, remove it from the freezer and let it sit in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, roll it in extra chopped pecans and cranberries before serving.

Wendy’s Tips

Get creative with your toppings! Try using different types of nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips.
Don’t have time to chill the cheeseball? You can serve it immediately, but it may not hold its shape as well.
For a savory twist, try adding some chopped herbs or spices into the cream cheese mixture before shaping it into a ball.

What To Serve With Cranberry Cheeseball

Variety of Crackers – Favorite crackers like pita chips, vanilla wafers, or a box of crackers provide the perfect crunch.

Veggie Sticks – Fresh veggie sticks serve as a healthier option.

Pear Slices – Try pear slices for a sweet and juicy contrast to the tangy cranberries.

Sweet Crackers – Sweet crackers add a unique twist to the flavor combination.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in my cheeseball?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with mozzarella cheese, sharp white cheddar cheese, blue cheese, or goat cheese for a new taste experience.

Can I add other ingredients to the cranberry cheeseball?

Yes! Consider adding Worcestershire sauce, fresh herbs, or a little thing like a dash of hot sauce for an exciting twist.

Do I need to use Pecans?

Not necessarily. You can substitute with chopped walnuts, almonds, or even onit pecans if preferred.