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Apple Pecan Cranberry Holiday Cheese Ball

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

This Apple Pecan Cranberry Holiday Cheese Ball is the ultimate festive appetizer a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors that instantly brings cheer to any holiday table. With the rich smoothness of cream cheese, the sharp bite of cheddar, and the delightful crunch of pecans, this cheese ball delivers texture and taste in every bite. The pops of dried cranberries and fresh apples add brightness and festive flair, making it a true holiday crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/2 cup apples, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for garnish
  • Graham crackers or sliced apples for serving

Instructions

  1. Mix the base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and fully blended.
  2. Add the festive mix-ins: Stir in chopped cranberries, diced apples, pecans, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
  3. Shape and chill: Form the mixture into a ball shape using your hands or a plastic wrap mold. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  4. Coat and garnish: Once chilled, roll the cheese ball in additional chopped pecans for a crunchy outer layer. Transfer to a serving platter.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and serve with graham crackers, apple slices, or your favorite dippers.

Notes

  1. Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing this ensures a smooth, creamy texture and easier blending.
  2. Chilling Time: Allowing the cheese ball to chill for at least 2 hours helps it firm up and enhances the flavors. Overnight chilling works great, too.
  3. Storage: You can make this cheese ball up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-cook / Mix and Chill
  • Cuisine: American, Holiday

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 cheese ball
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg

Keywords: holiday cheese ball, cranberry cheese ball, apple pecan appetizer, festive party dip, holiday appetizer

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Find it online: https://averyrecipes.com/apple-pecan-cranberry-holiday-cheese-ball/