Go Back
+ servings
Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball That's Perfect for Parties

This Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball impresses with creamy goat cheese, vibrant cranberries, and crunchy pecans, ideal for any gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10 balls
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Base
  • 8 ounces Goat Cheese Creamy base; substitute with cream cheese for a milder taste or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Adds a smooth texture.
For the Sweetness and Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Infuses natural sweetness.
  • 1 each Lemon Zest Brings bright, citrusy freshness.
For the Texture and Crunch
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Adds juicy sweetness; swap for dried cherries or chopped dried apricots.
  • 1 cup Pecans Provides a delightful crunch; can be replaced with walnuts or almonds.
For the Garnish
  • 1 handful Fresh Parsley Offers vibrant color and herby note.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • hand mixer
  • Cookie scoop
  • Tray

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and finely chopped fresh parsley. Stir well to evenly distribute and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, blend goat cheese and cream cheese using a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add honey and lemon zest, incorporating thoroughly.
  3. Using a 1-inch cookie scoop, portion the cheese mixture into small mounds and roll each between your hands to form balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
  4. Roll each cheese ball in the cranberry, pecan, and parsley mixture, pressing lightly for an even coating. Place back on the tray.
  5. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cheese balls for at least one hour to set.
  6. Once chilled, place cheese balls on a serving platter and insert pretzel sticks into each for easy serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This cheese ball is a perfect make-ahead appetizer that can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!