A festive, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holidays and parties.
If you’re searching for a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make ahead, this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is it. Creamy, tangy, and bursting with a mix of textures, this cheese ball combines rich cream cheese and sharp white cheddar with savory herbs and just a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries. Rolled in a vibrant coating of chopped cranberries, chives, and toasted pecans, it’s a total showstopper on any appetizer spread.
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, a Christmas gathering, or just want to upgrade your weekend charcuterie board, this recipe delivers all the flavor—and only takes about 15 minutes to prepare.
Why You’ll Love It
- Make-ahead friendly: Preps in minutes and stores for days
- Creamy + crunchy: Perfect balance of smooth cheese and nutty coating
- Beautiful presentation: A bright, festive centerpiece for any party
- Flexible flavor: Add or substitute ingredients based on your preference
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 16 oz full-fat cream cheese (brick-style, softened)
- 1 ¾ cups sharp white cheddar, freshly shredded
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (divided)
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¾ cup finely chopped dried cranberries (divided)
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans (divided)
How to Make It
Step 1: Mix the Cheese Base
In a stand mixer or with a sturdy spatula, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes). Add shredded cheddar, 1 tablespoon of the chives, parsley, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped cranberries and pecans. Mix until everything is fully combined.
Step 2: Shape and Chill
Scrape the cheese mixture into a ball shape using a spatula or your hands. It will be slightly sticky, but should hold together well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 5 days).
Step 3: Make the Coating
Just before serving, mix the remaining cranberries, pecans, and chives on a large plate.
Step 4: Coat and Serve
Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing gently to help it stick. Transfer to a serving plate surrounded by crackers, pretzels, veggies, or crostini. Let sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving for best texture.
Tips for Success
- Use full-fat cream cheese: It sets firmer and tastes richer.
- Shred your own cheddar: Pre-shredded doesn’t melt or blend as well.
- Soften cream cheese: This makes mixing easier and ensures a creamy texture.
- Make it mini: Divide the mixture into smaller cheese balls for individual servings or party platters.
Serving Ideas
- Crackers (wheat, butter, seeded)
- Pretzel rods
- Sliced baguette or crostini
- Apple slices or pears
- Fresh veggies like celery or bell pepper strips
Variations
- Nut-free version: Swap pecans for chopped pretzels (coat just before serving to prevent sogginess)
- Add spice: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce
- Make it sweeter: Add a little honey or maple syrup for more balance
- Use goat cheese: Replace part of the cream cheese for a tangy twist
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerator: Store tightly wrapped for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Wrap in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 large cheese ball (serves 20–24)
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¾ cups sharp white cheddar, shredded
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, divided
- 2 tsp fresh parsley
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ¾ cup dried cranberries, chopped (divided)
- ¾ cup pecans, chopped (divided)
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in cheddar, 1 tbsp chives, parsley, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half the cranberries/pecans.
- Shape into a ball. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Mix remaining chives, cranberries, and pecans. Roll chilled cheese ball in mixture to coat.
- Let sit 20–30 minutes before serving with crackers or veggies.
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is one of those simple recipes that leaves a big impression. Tangy, creamy, sweet, and crunchy—it hits every note. Make one for your next party and watch it disappear!
