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Two-Bite Cranberry Cheese Ball Pops


  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings (about 24 pops) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Bring a burst of holiday cheer to your appetizer spread with these Two-Bite Cranberry Cheese Ball Pops! They’re the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet with a hint of crunch from toasted pecans and a fun, handheld twist thanks to the pretzel stick “pop.” These mini cheese balls are not only easy to make but also look stunning on a party platter, making them ideal for festive gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 package pretzel sticks

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped dried cranberries, green onions, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
  2. Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the cheese balls to firm up.
  4. Roll each chilled cheese ball in the finely chopped pecans until fully coated.
  5. Insert a pretzel stick into the center of each ball to create a fun, easy-to-hold pop.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

  1. For the best texture, use full-fat cream cheese it helps the cheese balls stay rich and creamy.
  2. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
  3. To save time, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day ahead and roll them in nuts just before serving to keep them fresh.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack, Holiday Recipe
  • Method: No-Bake, Hand-Rolled
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 pops
  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 140 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg

Keywords: cheese ball pops, cranberry cheese balls, party appetizer, holiday snack, festive finger food