First, let me say — thank you for being here! Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party, planning a cozy night in, or just need a crowd-pleasing appetizer that looks as good as it tastes, I’m so excited to share this little gem with you.
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a creamy, savory, sweet-and-salty masterpiece. It’s the kind of appetizer that disappears fast — a guaranteed hit at holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or wine nights. Packed with sharp white cheddar, fresh herbs, and just the right pop of sweetness from dried cranberries, it’s rolled in a crunchy, festive coating that makes it almost too pretty to eat. (Almost.)
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What Is a Cheese Ball?
A cheese ball is an easy, no-bake appetizer made by mixing cream cheese with flavorful add-ins like shredded cheese, herbs, nuts, dried fruit, or spices. Once shaped into a ball, it’s chilled, then rolled in a crunchy coating for flavor and visual appeal.
This version? Festive. Creamy. Tangy. Nutty. Irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy — only 15 minutes of prep!
- Make-ahead friendly — even better when chilled overnight.
- Visually stunning — perfect centerpiece for your appetizer spread.
- Sweet + savory combo that everyone raves about.
- Versatile — serve with crackers, veggies, pretzels, or even fruit slices.
What Does It Taste Like?
It’s creamy and tangy from the cream cheese and cheddar, with just enough sharpness to balance the sweet chew of dried cranberries and the earthy crunch of pecans. The herbs bring freshness, and that touch of brown sugar? It gives it just enough warmth to tie it all together. Every bite is rich, textured, and packed with flavor.
Benefits of This Cheese Ball
- Serves a crowd (8–10 people)
- Naturally gluten-free (just serve with GF crackers!)
- No cooking or baking required
- Great for holidays, potlucks, and parties
- Can be made up to 5 days in advance
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¾ cups sharp white cheddar, shredded
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, divided
- 2 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ¾ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped, divided
- ¾ cup pecans, finely chopped, divided
🛠️ Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or sturdy spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Plastic wrap
- Serving plate or board
- Sharp knife for chopping nuts and cranberries
🔄 Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ons
Substitutions:
- Use orange zest instead of chives for a citrusy holiday twist.
- Swap walnuts or almonds for pecans if you prefer.
- Use dried cherries or chopped apricots instead of cranberries.
Additions:
- Add a few dashes of hot sauce for subtle heat.
- Mix in crumbled bacon for a smoky surprise.
- Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning for a fun twist!
👩🍳 How to Make a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
Step 1: Mix the Cheese Base
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add:
- Shredded cheddar
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- Parsley
- Brown sugar
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- HALF of the chopped cranberries and pecans
Mix everything together until fully combined and evenly textured.
Step 2: Shape & Chill
Using clean hands or a spatula, form the mixture into a round ball.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 5 days.
Step 3: Make the Topping
On a plate or shallow bowl, combine:
- The remaining cranberries
- The remaining pecans
- The remaining tablespoon of chives
Toss gently to mix.
Step 4: Roll & Serve
Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the topping mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere.
Transfer to a serving plate. Let sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving — this makes it extra creamy and spreadable.
🍽️ What to Serve with Your Cheese Ball
- Buttery crackers or multigrain crackers
- Crostini or toasted baguette slices
- Pretzel chips or sticks
- Celery, carrots, or cucumber rounds
- Sliced apples or pears (yes, seriously!)
💡 Tips for Cheese Ball Success
- Use full-fat cream cheese — it holds its shape best.
- Make sure ingredients are finely chopped for easier mixing and rolling.
- Let the cheese ball rest at room temp before serving for the best texture.
- For a super-smooth texture, use a hand mixer to blend the base.
🧊 Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Store wrapped cheese ball (before rolling) for up to 5 days. Roll in coating just before serving.
- Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days after serving.
- Freezer: Not recommended — cream cheese texture changes when frozen.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The cheese ball can be made and wrapped up to 5 days ahead. Just roll in the cranberry-pecan coating before serving.
Can I serve it straight from the fridge?
You can, but it’s best after sitting at room temp for 20–30 minutes so it’s spreadable and creamy.
Can I make mini cheese balls?
Absolutely! Divide into smaller portions, coat individually, and serve as cheese ball bites — perfect for parties.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly shredded cheddar melts better into the cream cheese and gives a smoother texture.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is everything a party appetizer should be: easy, make-ahead, festive, and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe your guests will ask for — and the kind you’ll come back to again and again, especially during the holidays.
Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving gathering, a Christmas Eve party, or just want to elevate your weekend wine-and-cheese board, this cheese ball delivers on every level.
🧀 More Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers to Try
- Whipped Feta with Roasted Grapes
- Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Pecans
- Garlic Herb Cheese Log
- Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
📸 Show Off Your Cheese Ball!
If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it!
Leave a review, post a pic, and tag me on Pinterest or Instagram. Let’s keep the party going with cheese, cranberries, and good vibes all around! 🧡
🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 10 servings)
- Calories: ~240
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 230mg
Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
