If you want an appetizer that checks every box for your holiday table (or honestly, any gathering), you can’t go wrong with this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe. It’s sweet and tangy from the cranberries, delightfully nutty thanks to toasted pecans, and packed with bold, creamy flavor from a duo of cheeses. Guests always gather around this festive centerpiece, and it’s one of those make-ahead wonders that tastes just as good as it looks. If you’re new to the whole cheese ball thing, get ready to fall in love with your new favorite party trick!

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is one of those recipes where each ingredient truly earns its spot. Every item brings something unique, whether it’s richness, crunch, color, or a hint of zing. Here’s what you’ll need to make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe shine:

Cream Cheese (16 oz, softened): The creamy, tangy base that holds everything together while providing that necessary richness.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups): Adds that classic bite and depth you want in a savory cheese ball.
Dried Cranberries (1/2 cup, chopped): These little bursts of sweet-tart flavor take the cheese ball to the next level (plus, so pretty!)
Pecans (1/2 cup, chopped and toasted): Toasting highlights their buttery, nutty flavor and gives the ball irresistible crunch.
Green Onions (2, thinly sliced): Fresh, mild onion flavor cuts through the richness and adds color.
Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Subtle garlicky kick that ties all the flavors together.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A touch of heat—just enough to balance the sweet and tangy notes.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Ensures all the flavors really pop.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 teaspoon): That savory, umami punch makes everything more delicious.
Additional chopped pecans and cranberries: For coating the outside and that extra layer of texture and pizzazz.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

Step 1: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped cranberries, toasted pecans, green onions, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. You want everything in one place so you can mix easily and evenly. Don’t be afraid to use a rubber spatula or even your (clean!) hands for a thorough mix. At this stage, it will look a bit rustic, but trust the process—every speck matters.

Step 2: Shape the Cheese Ball

Once your mixture is thoroughly combined (look for even color and distribution of the goodies), switch to forming the ball. Gather the mixture and gently press it into a large ball. It’s okay if it isn’t perfectly round—rustic looks inviting! If it feels a bit sticky, a piece of plastic wrap or slightly damp hands will help you shape it without making a mess.

Step 3: Chill for Best Results

Wrap your cheese ball snuggly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 days if you want to work ahead. This not only helps it hold its shape but also allows the flavors to mingle and deepen. If you’re making it the night before, don’t worry—it’ll taste even better by party time.

Step 4: Roll in Toppings

Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and spread a layer of additional chopped pecans and cranberries on a plate. Gently roll the cheese ball over the mixture, pressing lightly to help the toppings stick. This step is where that signature festive look comes together—don’t hesitate to press a few extra cranberries or nuts in for maximum coverage.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Place the finished Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe on a platter and surround it with crackers, crostini, or crunchy veggies. It’s best served chilled but gives up just enough as it sits at room temperature for easy scooping and spreading. Now, watch as it disappears!

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

Garnishes

For that “wow” presentation, sprinkle a few extra green onions or fresh parsley around the base and maybe a drizzle of honey for those who like a touch of sweetness. The garnishes add a pop of color and make it look festive and inviting, perfect for holiday tables or casual get-togethers.

Side Dishes

This cheese ball pairs beautifully with crunchy crackers, an assortment of crostini, or even crisp veggie sticks like celery and bell pepper slices. For a heartier spread, set out some charcuterie meats or marinated olives on the side for contrast. The creamy, bold cheese ball is the star, while these sides create a balanced, crowd-pleasing platter.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get extra creative, shape the cheese ball into a log, a wreath, or even mini cheese balls for individual servings. Little skewers or pretzel sticks can turn pieces into easy grab-and-go bites. For parties, nestle the cheese ball in a ring of crackers or edible flowers to amp up the festive vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cheese ball (if you’re lucky enough to have any) will last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh. The flavors actually get better over the first day or so, so don’t worry if you want to nibble later on in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe if you want to prep really far ahead. Wrap the ball (without the outer coating) securely in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to serve, then roll in fresh nuts and cranberries. This keeps the toppings perky and prevents any sogginess.

Reheating

This is a no-cook, no-reheat appetizer. If your cheese ball has chilled too long and feels too firm, just let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving, so it’s soft enough to scoop but still holds its shape. No oven work required—so easy!

FAQs

Can I make the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance, wrap it well, and keep it in the fridge until ready to serve. Just wait to roll it in the final coating until right before serving for the best texture.

What’s the best way to toast pecans?

Toasting brings out their rich, buttery flavor. Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once, until they smell extra nutty and are a shade darker. Let them cool before mixing into your cheese ball.

Can I use other nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds are great swaps for pecans, and dried cherries or apricots work nicely if you’re looking for a twist. The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe is super flexible to what you have on hand.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The cheese ball itself is gluten-free, but be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks if you’re accommodating gluten intolerance.

How do I keep my cheese ball from going soft or mushy?

Always chill the finished ball for at least one hour, and don’t leave it at room temperature for too long before serving. Wrapping it tightly in plastic also helps keep its shape and prevent it from drying out.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never made a homemade cheese ball, the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe is the perfect way to start—and once you do, you’ll see why it’s loved at every party. Simple ingredients, a festive flair, and unbeatable flavor come together in one beautiful bite. Gather your friends, grab your crackers, and dig in—you’re about to create a new appetizer tradition!

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

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4.9 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Creamy cream cheese blended with sharp cheddar, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans, rolled in more nuts and fruit for a delightful finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Ball:

16 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
1/2 cup pecans (chopped and toasted)
2 green onions (thinly sliced)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Coating:

Additional chopped pecans and cranberries

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Instructions

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, cranberries, toasted pecans, green onions, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and Worcestershire.
Shape Ball: Form the mixture into a ball using a spatula or hands.
Chill: Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Coat: Roll the chilled ball in more pecans and cranberries.
Serve: Enjoy with crackers, crostini, or veggies.