This delightful Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball is a fun and tasty treat for any gathering! Made with creamy cheese, crunchy nuts, and sweet-tart cranberries, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
It’s super easy to make, just mix it all up, shape it, and roll it in nuts. I love serving it with crackers—perfect for sharing, or for sneaking some bites when no one’s looking! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The base of this recipe is cream cheese. Neufchâtel is a lighter option if you prefer something with fewer calories. For a vegan alternative, try a plant-based cream cheese.
Dried Cranberries: These add a wonderful tartness. If you don’t have cranberries, raisins or chopped dried cherries can work well. Sweetened or unsweetened, just choose what fits your taste.
Pecans: Pecans provide a crunchy texture. Walnuts or almonds can be substituted for a different flavor. If you’re nut-free, consider pumpkin seeds for that satisfying crunch.
Fresh Parsley: This adds some freshness and color. If parsley isn’t your thing, chives or green onions can add a nice touch too. A little dill could also work for a different flavor profile.
Honey: This sweetens the cream cheese mixture. If you’re vegan, swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.
How Do I Perfectly Shape the Cheese Ball?
Shaping the cream cheese ball is an important step. Here’s how to do it easily:
- First, combine all the ingredients well for an even mixture.
- Use your hands to gather the mixture into a ball. It will be sticky, so wet your hands with a little water for a smoother process.
- Once you have a ball shape, roll it in chopped pecans until evenly covered.
- If you want a neat finish, use plastic wrap to help mold it. Just wrap the mixture and shape it tightly before rolling in nuts.
Remember, it doesn’t need to be perfectly round—just tasty! Enjoy crafting your cheese ball creation!
How to Make a Delicious Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (plus extra for rolling and garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp honey (optional for slight sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Fresh whole cranberries, for garnish
- Crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious treat will take about 15 minutes to prepare. No cooking is required, just some mixing and rolling! For best results, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and make it firm. Total time: 45 minutes including chilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, parsley, honey, garlic powder, and salt. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be smooth and colorful!
2. Shape the Cheese Ball:
Using your hands, gather the mixture together and shape it into a tight ball. If the mixture is sticky, you can wet your hands slightly with water to make it easier to handle.
3. Roll in Pecans:
Spread the additional chopped pecans on a plate. Roll the shaped cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to ensure the nuts stick to the surface evenly. This adds a lovely crunch and flavor!
4. Garnish and Serve:
Place the cream cheese ball on a serving board. Garnish it with fresh whole cranberries and a few extra pecans on top for a festive look. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
5. Enjoy with Crackers:
Serve the cheese ball chilled or at room temperature with a variety of crackers for dipping. It’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a tasty appetizer! Enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute to reduce calories. Just keep in mind that it may not be as creamy, but the flavor will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just bring it back to room temperature before serving it again for the best flavor and texture.
Can I Make This Cheese Ball Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just follow the instructions, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This helps the flavors develop even more.
What Can I Use Instead of Pecans?
If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives that will still provide a nice crunch. For a nut-free option, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead!
