Cranberry Pecan Cheeseball
This cranberry pecan cheeseball is the ultimate party appetizer – creamy, tangy, sweet, and crunchy in every bite! It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to wow your guests every time.
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 230kcal
Ingredients
For the Cheeseball
- 12 oz softened cream cheese that's 1 ½ blocks
- 6 oz shredded cheddar
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- ½ cup finely chopped dried cranberries
- ¼ cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley loosely packed
To Roll
- 3 tablespoons chopped pecans
- 3 tablespoons chopped dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients for the cheeseball in a bowl and shape into a ball. Roll in chopped pecans, cranberries and parsley and serve with crackers and/or raw veggie sticks.
Video
Notes
Ingredient notes
- Cream Cheese: Use regular softened cream cheese for the best texture. If using a cream cheese spread, chill it beforehand for easier mixing.
- Cheddar: A sharp cheddar packs more flavor, but medium cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack work great too.
- Cranberries: Sweetened cranberries are ideal for a hint of sweetness, but unsweetened ones add a tart twist.
- Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor but let them cool before mixing. Almonds or walnuts make excellent substitutes.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a mild, herby flavor. Substitute with green onions or cilantro for more pungency.
Recipe tips
- Soften Cream Cheese: Let cream cheese sit out for 30 minutes or microwave for 10 seconds (don’t let it melt!).
- Chop Finely: Smaller pieces of mix-ins blend better and make shaping easier.
- Chill If Sticky: Refrigerate the mixture for 10–15 minutes if it’s too soft to shape.
- Fresh Toppings: Roll in fresh nuts, cranberries, and parsley just before serving for vibrant presentation.
- Shape Creatively: Try a cone for a festive tree or a log for easy slicing.
Make ahead/storage
- Make Ahead: Without parsley, prepare up to 1 day ahead. With parsley, make no more than 6 hours in advance.
- Storage: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Leftovers: Use leftovers as a spread for bagels or a topping for baked potatoes – they’re delicious!
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 46mg | Sodium: 180mg | Potassium: 89mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 656IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 137mg | Iron: 1mg