Go Back
Cranberry pecan cheese ball appetizer on wooden board with crackers and holiday garnish

Easy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe - 15 Minute Holiday Appetizer

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball blends creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a hint of cinnamon for a festive appetizer that’s elegant, flavorful, and ready in just 15 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 160
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans plus extra for coating
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method
 

  1. Let cream cheese soften to room temperature.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, cranberries, pecans, Parmesan, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
  3. Shape mixture into a ball using clean hands or plastic wrap to help form a smooth round shape.
  4. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
  5. Before serving, roll the chilled cheese ball in extra chopped pecans for coating.
  6. Serve with crackers, apple slices, or toasted baguette rounds.

Notes

Use only dried cranberries to prevent excess moisture. Chill thoroughly before serving to ensure firm texture. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh rosemary and extra cranberries.