Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

This cheese ball started as a simple idea and quickly became a go-to appetizer. Creamy, tangy, and speckled with sweet dried cranberries and savory herbs, it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast—whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a casual weekend gathering.

Rolled in a jewel-toned coating of toasted pecans, cranberries, and fresh chives, it’s not just delicious—it’s a centerpiece.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Full-fat cream cheese (softened)	16 oz (brick-style)
Sharp white cheddar (shredded)	1 ¾ cups
Fresh chives (divided)	2 tbsp
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tsp
Brown sugar	1 tsp
Garlic powder	1 tsp
Salt	¼ tsp
Black pepper (freshly ground)	¼ tsp
Dried cranberries (finely chopped)	¾ cup (divided)
Pecans (finely chopped)	¾ cup (divided)

How to Make It

Step 1: Mix the Cheese Base
Beat cream cheese until smooth (about 2 minutes). Add cheddar, 1 tbsp chives, parsley, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half the cranberries and pecans. Mix until fully combined.

Step 2: Shape and Chill
Form the mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 5 days).

Step 3: Prepare the Coating
Just before serving, combine the remaining cranberries, pecans, and chives on a plate.

Step 4: Roll and Serve
Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the coating, pressing gently to adhere. Place on a serving platter with crackers, crostini, pretzels, or fresh veggies. Let sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving for best texture.