Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball

Name: Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Crackers; Fresh fruit; Additional pecans for rolling (optional)

Highlighted under: Holiday Kitchen Inspirations

Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball! Creamy, tangy cream cheese is mixed with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, then shaped into a festive sphere that’s perfect for spreading on crackers or fresh fruit. This crowd-pleasing treat is not only easy to make but also a stunning centerpiece for your holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers. Serve it up with a side of crackers and watch it disappear in no time!

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2025-12-02T10:20:58.287Z

This Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball is the perfect addition to your holiday spread. It combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans, making every bite a delightful experience.

A Festive Touch for Any Occasion

The Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball is more than just an appetizer; it’s a show-stopping centerpiece that brings warmth and cheer to your holiday table. Its vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, ensuring it catches the eye of every guest. Imagine the delight on your friends' and family’s faces when they see this beautiful creation during your holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers. It’s perfect for family celebrations, cocktail parties, or even as a contribution to a potluck.

What sets this cream cheese ball apart is its delightful blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements. The tangy cream cheese pairs beautifully with the tartness of dried cranberries and the rich, buttery flavor of pecans. Each bite offers a wholesome experience; the soft creaminess, bursting flavors, and satisfying texture leave your taste buds craving more. This appetizer makes it easy to engage in conversations while everyone mingles around the snack table.

Easy Preparation in Three Simple Steps

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. In just three easy steps, you transform basic ingredients into an impressive appetizer. Start by mixing the cream cheese with the other ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavors. The combination of green onions adds a subtle zest, while the garlic and onion powder provide an aromatic touch, enhancing the overall taste. It’s a straightforward process that requires minimal effort but results in maximum enjoyment, making it ideal for both seasoned and novice cooks.

Once you’ve prepared the mixture, shaping it into a ball is both fun and rewarding. You can use plastic wrap to mold the cheese mixture, allowing it to hold its form. After chilling, this cheese ball is ready to be adorned with even more pecans, adding an elegant finish and a satisfying crunch. This ease of preparation means you can whip it up last minute while still impressing your guests with your culinary skills.

Pairing Suggestions and Variations

Serving the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers and fresh fruit elevates the experience even further. Consider pairing it with different types of crackers - from buttery to whole grain, each will offer a unique taste that complements the cream cheese ball’s flavor profile. Fresh apple slices, pear wedges, or even grapes can create a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese ball, making every bite delightful.

For those looking to experiment, there are plenty of variations you can explore. Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch. You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if preferred. Additionally, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can introduce a touch of sweetness or heat, respectively, creating a personalized twist on this classic appetizer.

Ingredients

For the Cream Cheese Ball

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Crackers
Fresh fruit
Additional pecans for rolling (optional)

Mixing the ingredients together is simple and can be done quickly with a mixer or by hand.

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Cheese Ball

Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape it into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Serve

Before serving, remove the cheese ball from the fridge, unwrap it, and roll it in additional chopped pecans if desired. Serve with crackers and fresh fruit.

This cheese ball can be made a day ahead, making it an easy addition to your party prep!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though it's rare!), store the Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious treat even after your gathering. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving again, as it will be easier to spread once slightly softened.

If you want to prepare it in advance, consider making the cheese ball a day or two ahead of your event. This not only saves time on the day of the gathering but also allows the flavors to meld wonderfully, enhancing the overall taste. Make sure to roll it in pecans just before serving to maintain its crunchy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, presentation is key. Consider placing your cheese ball on a decorative platter surrounded by an array of colorful garnishes. Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can add a festive touch, while a small bowl of cranberry sauce or chutney might enhance both flavor and visual appeal. Your guests will appreciate the extra effort put into the presentation.

Additionally, offering a variety of accompaniments can cater to different tastes. Alongside crackers and fruits, include some sliced vegetables like carrots and cucumbers for a fresh crunch. This gives guests options and helps create a well-rounded appetizer table that everyone can enjoy.

Ideal for Any Season

While this cream cheese ball is particularly popular during the holiday season, it’s also a fantastic choice for any occasion. Its vibrant flavors and textures make it suitable for summer barbecues, fall gatherings, and spring picnics. The versatility of the ingredients ensures that it can be enjoyed year-round, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Don’t hesitate to customize the dish based on the season or the occasion. Adjust the additions based on what’s available and in season, ensuring that you can always serve up a fresh and exciting version of this classic dish, no matter the time of year.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.

→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?

Crackers, fresh fruit, and sliced vegetables are all great accompaniments.