Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball: Festive, Creamy, and Crowd-Pleasing

The Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball is a festive appetizer that steals the show at every holiday gathering. Creamy, tangy cream cheese blends perfectly with sweet-tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a hint of zesty seasoning. Unlike traditional spreads, this cheese ball is rolled into a beautiful shape, making it a centerpiece as well as a delicious snack. It’s ideal for Christmas parties, family get-togethers, or New Year’s celebrations.

This holiday cheese ball comes together quickly and uses simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. It’s versatile too: serve it with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies. You can even make it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and the cranberries and nuts to infuse the cream cheese with holiday flavor. Its creamy interior and crunchy exterior make it a festive must-have.

With a combination of cream cheese, cheddar, cranberries, and pecans, this cheese ball balances sweet, salty, and nutty flavors in every bite. Decorating it with extra cranberries and pecans adds a beautiful holiday touch. Whether you’re a seasoned host or a beginner cook, this recipe is simple, quick, and guaranteed to impress your guests.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Yield: Serves 8-10

---

What Makes This Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball Special?

• Festive flavor profile: Sweet cranberries, nutty pecans, and creamy cheese make every bite memorable.

• Quick and easy: Only 15 minutes of prep with minimal cleanup.

• Eye-catching centerpiece: Perfect for holiday tables with its rounded shape and colorful topping.

• Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared a day in advance for maximum flavor.

• Versatile serving options: Pairs beautifully with crackers, crostini, and fresh vegetables.

---

Ingredient Notes

• Cream cheese: Provides the creamy base. Use full-fat for best texture and flavor.

• Cheddar cheese: Adds tanginess and body. Sharp cheddar enhances the holiday flavor.

• Cranberries: Sweet-tart dried cranberries are ideal. Fresh cranberries can work if chopped and lightly sweetened.

• Pecans: Adds crunch and nuttiness. Toasting them enhances flavor.

• Green onions or chives (optional): Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper help balance sweetness.

• Serving tools: Plastic wrap for shaping, small bowl for rolling, and a platter for presentation.

---

How To Make Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball

1. Mix the cheese: In a large bowl, combine 8 oz cream cheese (softened) with 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar. Use a hand mixer or spatula to blend until smooth.

2. Add flavorings: Stir in 1/2 cup finely chopped dried cranberries, 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional), 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.

3. Shape the cheese ball: Place the mixture on a piece of plastic wrap. Using your hands, shape it into a ball, approximately 6 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

4. Prepare the coating: Chop 3/4 cup pecans and 1/4 cup additional cranberries. Spread them on a plate or shallow bowl.

5. Roll the cheese ball: Remove cheese ball from plastic wrap. Gently roll it in the pecan-cranberry mixture until evenly coated. Place on a serving platter.

6. Garnish and serve: Optional: decorate with extra cranberries, chopped pecans, or fresh herbs. Serve with crackers, crostini, or sliced veggies.

Tips:

• Toast the pecans lightly in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes for a deeper flavor.

• For a creamier texture, let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before mixing.

• Cheese balls can be shaped in fun holiday forms like a Christmas tree or small log for extra festivity.

---

Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Not recommended; cheese balls should remain chilled.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Can be frozen uncoated for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling in nuts/cranberries.

• Serving tips: Bring to room temperature 15–20 minutes before serving for softer texture.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Holiday Cheese Ball: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne or chopped jalapeño for a kick.

• Herb & Nut Mix: Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds, and add fresh rosemary or thyme.

• Cheese Swap: Substitute cheddar with gouda or havarti for a milder flavor.

• Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and shredded plant-based cheese, and ensure dried cranberries are unsweetened.

• Mini Cheese Balls: Make small 2-inch balls for easy party servings or a cheese board.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the cheese ball in advance?
Yes! Prepare 1 day ahead for the best flavor. Keep refrigerated until ready to coat with nuts and cranberries.

2. Can I use fresh cranberries?
Yes, but they should be finely chopped and lightly sweetened as fresh berries are tart.

3. How do I prevent the cheese ball from sticking to my hands?
Use plastic wrap or lightly wet your hands while shaping.

4. Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze before coating in nuts or cranberries. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

5. What is the best way to serve?
Serve with crackers, crostini, or sliced vegetables. Allow to sit at room temperature 15–20 minutes before serving.

6. Can I add other flavors?
Yes! Try mixing in roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs for a personalized touch.

---

Conclusion

The Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball is a festive, creamy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any holiday table. Its sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors are balanced and irresistible. Whether you make it as a centerpiece for your Christmas spread or a simple snack for a winter party, this recipe is easy, quick, and sure to impress. Try it today, get creative with toppings, and enjoy the compliments from your guests!

Print