This cranberry nut cream cheese ball is a fun and tasty treat! It combines smooth cream cheese with sweet cranberries and crunchy nuts, making it perfect for parties.
Spread it on crackers for a delightful snack! I love making it ahead of time—it’s always a hit, and it looks fancy without being hard to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the dish, providing a rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese or Neufchâtel. Dairy-free cream cheese can work well if you’re avoiding dairy.
Dried Cranberries: They add a wonderful sweetness and color. If cranberries aren’t available, you might use dried cherries or raisins as substitutes. Just keep in mind that different fruits will alter the flavor.
Pecans: These nuts add crunch and a slight nuttiness. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be excellent alternatives. They’ll still give a nice texture!
Fresh Parsley: This ingredient enhances the appearance and adds a fresh note. If parsley isn’t your thing, try substituting with fresh chives or dill for a different flavor profile.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both are optional for sweetness, but they can balance the tanginess of the cream cheese. You could also use agave syrup or omit it entirely if you prefer less sweetness.
How Do I Shape the Perfect Cheese Ball Without It Sticking?
Molding the cream cheese mixture into a ball can be tricky! Here are some handy tips:
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this makes mixing easier.
- If the mixture is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to shape.
- Use slightly wet hands to prevent sticking when forming it into a ball.
- Finish by rolling it in chopped nuts for a beautiful and tasty crust!
With these tips, you’ll have a beautiful and delicious cranberry nut cream cheese ball ready to impress your guests!
How to Make a Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cream Cheese Ball:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for subtle sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Whole fresh cranberries
- Crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, and it’s best to chill for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors develop. So, in total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 10 minutes to make this delicious appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese, honey (if you are using it), garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a fork or a hand mixer to mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It should look fluffy and well combined.
2. Adding the Goodies:
Next, fold in the chopped dried cranberries, finely chopped pecans, and fresh parsley. Make sure everything is mixed evenly so each bite has a nice blend of flavors.
3. Forming the Ball:
Now it’s time to shape the mixture! Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into a ball. If the mixture is too sticky, pop it into the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to firm up a bit.
4. Coating the Cream Cheese Ball:
Take some extra chopped pecans and roll the cheese ball in them to coat the outside. This adds a lovely crunch and makes it look great!
5. Decorating and Serving:
Place the cream cheese ball on a serving platter. For an extra touch, garnish it with whole fresh cranberries and sprinkle additional chopped pecans around it for decoration.
6. Chill and Enjoy:
For the best flavor, cover the cheese ball and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend together nicely. When you’re ready to serve, pair the cheese ball with your favorite crackers or sliced baguette.
Enjoy this delightful, creamy, tangy, and crunchy appetizer perfect for any gathering! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese or Neufchâtel for a lighter version! Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but it should still hold together well.
Can I Make This Cream Cheese Ball in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese ball up to 2 days ahead. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for easier spreading and better flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Pecans?
If you have nut allergies or just want to try something different, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives. You can also use walnuts or almonds if you prefer!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, just take it out to soften a bit before serving with crackers again!