This fun and festive Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball is perfect for gatherings! It’s a creamy mix of cream cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy nuts wrapped in a tasty coating.
Serve it with crackers and watch it disappear! Everyone loves dipping into this bright and cheerful snack. I always make extra because it’s just that good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of your cream cheese ball and gives it that rich, creamy texture. Low-fat cream cheese can be used to cut some calories if desired, but the texture might be less smooth.
Dried Cranberries: They add sweetness and a pop of color. If you can’t find dried cranberries, raisins or chopped dried cherries can work as substitutes.
Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch and a great nutty flavor. You can swap them for walnuts or any other nut you like, but be careful if nut allergies are a concern. Seeds like sunflower seeds could be a good alternative.
Honey: This sweetener helps balance the tangy cream cheese. Maple syrup can be a nice substitution if you’re looking for a vegan option or an alternative flavor.
Fresh Parsley: It adds a bit of freshness and color. You can replace it with chives or green onions for a different taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Ball Stays Firm?
Getting the perfect shape for your cheese ball is all about the right consistency. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened but not overly warm. If it’s too warm, the cheese ball will be too soft.
- Chilling the mixture for at least an hour before shaping can help firm it up, making it easier to form into a ball.
- When rolling the ball in nuts and cranberries, pressing gently helps them stick without making the mixture fall apart.
How to Make a Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes and Serving:
- Fresh whole cranberries and additional pecans for garnish
- Crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball takes about 15 minutes to prepare and needs at least 1 hour to chill in the fridge. It’s a simple, no-cook recipe that’s perfect for festive gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cream Cheese Base:
Start by taking a medium mixing bowl and adding the softened cream cheese, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend it all together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and chopped fresh parsley. Make sure everything is evenly mixed into the cream cheese.
3. Shape the Cheese Ball:
Now, take the creamy mixture and use your hands or the spatula to form it into a ball shape. Don’t worry if it’s a bit sticky; that’s just part of the fun!
4. Coat the Ball:
Roll the cream cheese ball in extra chopped pecans and some additional dried cranberries. Press lightly to help them stick to the surface. This will give your cheese ball a nice texture and look!
5. Prepare for Serving:
Place the cheese ball on a nice serving board or plate. Feel free to garnish with fresh whole cranberries and more pecans arranged around it. This adds a lovely festive touch!
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the cheese ball with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors combine and allows the cheese ball to set up nicely.
7. Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, take the cheese ball out of the fridge and serve it chilled with your favorite crackers. It’s perfect for snacking and will surely be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans give this cheese ball a lovely flavor, you can swap them for walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds if you’re looking for nut-free options. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size for even distribution!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the cheese ball well to keep it fresh and maintain its flavor!
Can I Make This Cheese Ball in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare this cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Just follow the recipe, shape it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great option for parties!
What Can I Serve with the Cheese Ball?
This cream cheese ball pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers! Crackers, sliced baguette, vegetable sticks, or even pretzels are all great options. You could also serve it with apple slices for a sweet twist!