Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball – A Festive Classic for Every Gathering

There are some appetizers that instantly signal celebration, and this cranberry pecan cream cheese ball is one of them. Whether it’s set out at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy winter get-together, it always draws people in. Creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and crunchy all at once, it’s the kind of recipe that feels nostalgic and special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The base of this cheese ball is smooth cream cheese blended with savory shredded cheese and a touch of seasoning. Dried cranberries add bursts of sweetness, while green onions bring balance and freshness. Once chilled, the mixture is rolled in a generous coating of crunchy pecans and more cranberries, creating a beautiful contrast in both flavor and texture. Every bite offers something different, which is exactly why it disappears so quickly.

This appetizer is especially beloved because it’s make-ahead friendly and endlessly adaptable. It fits perfectly on a holiday cheese board, pairs beautifully with crackers and sliced apples, and looks impressive with very little effort. If you’re looking for a tried-and-true crowd-pleaser, this cranberry pecan cream cheese ball is a must-have.

Ingredients:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Green onions, finely chopped
• Dried cranberries
• Chopped pecans
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Crackers or sliced apples, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Fold in half of the dried cranberries and half of the chopped green onions.
4. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to firm up.
5. Once chilled, shape the mixture into a round ball using clean hands.
6. On a plate, mix remaining cranberries with chopped pecans.
7. Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing gently so it adheres.
8. Wrap tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.
9. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Ball

A creamy holiday cheese ball with dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and savory cheddar.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cheese Ball

• 16 oz cream cheese softened
• 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 0.75 cup dried cranberries divided
• 0.25 cup green onions chopped

Coating

• 1 cup pecans chopped

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or spoon
• Plastic wrap

Method

 

1. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Mix in cheese, seasonings, cranberries, and onions.
3. Chill mixture until firm.
4. Shape into a ball and roll in pecans and cranberries.

Notes

Let soften slightly before serving for best texture.

Tips & Tricks

• Chill before shaping for the smoothest, cleanest ball.
• Use freshly chopped pecans for maximum crunch.
• Add cranberries both inside and outside for balanced sweetness.

Variations

• Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
• Swap cheddar for white cheddar or Monterey Jack.
• Add finely chopped fresh rosemary for a holiday twist.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with buttery crackers, toasted baguette slices, pretzels, or crisp apple slices for contrast.

Storage Information
Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Best served slightly softened.

FAQ

• Can I make this ahead? Yes, it’s ideal for preparing 1–2 days in advance.
• Can I freeze it? Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

History / Fun Facts
Cheese balls became popular in mid-20th-century entertaining, prized for their elegance, ease, and make-ahead convenience—especially during the holidays.