Dessert

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

ByRafael Mansero December 8, 2025December 8, 2025

Introduction

If you’re looking for a festive and flavorful appetizer, this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a perfect choice. Creamy, tangy, and packed with crunchy textures, it’s sure to be the star at any gathering.

A close-up image of a round cheese ball, cut partially to show its creamy white inside mixed with small bits of green herbs and nuts. The outside is covered evenly in pieces of deep red dried cranberries and brown pecans, mixed with bits of green herbs. The cheese ball sits on a white marbled surface with golden rectangular crackers placed in the foreground near it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 + ¾ cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh green onions, divided
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¾ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped, divided
¾ cup pecans, finely chopped, divided

Instructions

Step 1: In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the shredded cheddar, half of the green onions, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, half of the cranberries, and half of the pecans. Beat until well combined.
Step 3: Scrape the mixture from the sides of the bowl and shape it into a ball using a silicone spatula. If sticky, grease your hands with butter or oil to make shaping easier.
Step 4: In a small bowl, combine the remaining cranberries, pecans, and green onions. Spread this mixture on a plate.
Step 5: Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture until fully coated.
Step 6: Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 5 days.
Step 7: Before serving, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to soften slightly. Serve with crackers or fresh veggies for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture before shaping.
Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty texture.
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be mixed into the coating for a vibrant touch.

Storage

Store the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To serve again, allow it to soften at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. Leftovers can be covered and refrigerated but are best enjoyed fresh within the first few days.