This tasty Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball is a fun and festive snack! It’s made with creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy nuts, making it a perfect treat for gatherings.
Spread it on crackers or just dig in with a spoon—no judgment here! I love how it’s super easy to whip up, and it always impresses guests with its festive look and yummy flavor!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The base of this cheese ball is cream cheese, which gives it a rich and smooth texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, or for a dairy-free alternative, try using vegan cream cheese.
Dried Cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a nice sweet and tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, consider using dried cherries or raisins. Just remember that raisins are sweeter, so adjust the honey or maple syrup accordingly.
Pecans: Pecans add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. If nuts aren’t your thing, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well as substitutes. Just be sure to adjust quantities to suit your taste.
Fresh Parsley: This adds freshness and color. If you don’t have parsley, chives or green onions can also add a nice touch. If you want to skip the herbs entirely, that’s okay too!
How Do I Form the Perfect Cheese Ball?
Shaping the cheese ball is an important step. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Once everything is mixed, lay the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap.
- Gather the corners of the wrap and start shaping it into a ball. Use your hands to press and mold it evenly.
- Ensure it’s tightly wrapped in the plastic, as this helps it hold its shape while chilling.
- After chilling, if the ball seems soft, just press it a bit firmer when garnishing.
Chilling for at least 2 hours is key to letting the flavors meld and helping the cheese ball firm up, making it easier to serve!
Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Crackers for serving
- Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delightful snack takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 2 hours of chilling time in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and helps firm up the cheese ball for easy serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Start by taking your softened cream cheese and placing it in a mixing bowl. Add in the honey (or maple syrup), garlic powder, and salt. Use a hand mixer or a fork to mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious base of your cheese ball!
2. Add the Cranberries and Nuts:
Now, fold in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and finely chopped parsley. Make sure everything is mixed well so that you get some delicious cranberries and nuts in every bite!
3. Shape the Cheese Ball:
Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Gather the corners of the plastic wrap together and start shaping it into a ball. Press gently but firmly to ensure it holds its shape. Once shaped, wrap it up completely and place it in the refrigerator.
4. Chill the Cheese Ball:
Let your cheese ball chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This will help it firm up and allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. While you wait, you can prep your serving platter and crackers!
5. Garnish Before Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, take the cheese ball out of the fridge. You can roll the outside of the cheese ball in additional chopped pecans for added crunch and flavor. Feel free to garnish the top with whole pecans and fresh cranberries for that festive touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cranberry nut cream cheese ball with a variety of crackers or sliced bread for spreading. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or just a cozy snack at home. Enjoy the creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors all at once!
This festive and flavorful cheese ball combines creamy, tangy, sweet, and crunchy elements perfect for holiday entertaining!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese will work just fine in this recipe, though the texture might be slightly different. Just ensure it’s softened well for easy mixing!
How Long Can I Store the Cheese Ball in the Fridge?
You can store the cranberry nut cream cheese ball in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I Make This Cheese Ball Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make it 1-2 days in advance. Just prepare the cheese ball, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. Remember to add any garnishes fresh just before serving!
What Should I Serve with the Cheese Ball?
This cream cheese ball pairs wonderfully with various crackers, sliced baguette, or even fresh veggie sticks. You can also serve it alongside a fruit platter for a nice balance of flavors!