Cranberry Cheese Ball

For your next dinner party, consider serving this cranberry cheese ball. This fun, retro appetizer is bound to put a smile on everyone’s faces. A cranberry cheese ball is equal parts creamy, sweet and crunchy and made primarily of two types of cheese, dried cranberries, peppers and pecans. Plus, this dish is easy to execute, requiring you to simply combine the ingredients, shape it into a ball and refrigerate until firm. Serve your cheese ball with plenty of crackers, toast or fruit—or, better yet, a spread of all three. 

Ingredients for Cranberry Cheese Ball

• Cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before using (allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes).
• Gorgonzola: You could use any good-quality, sharp cheese like white cheddar or Gruyere.
• Dried cranberries: Dried cranberries add an elemental tanginess and sweetness to this dish.
• Onion, celery, green pepper and sweet red pepper: Take the time to finely chop all your veggies (or put them in a food processor).
• Hot pepper sauce: Learn how to make your own hot sauce here.
• Chopped pecans: Substitute for your favorite type of nuts if you’d prefer.
• Assorted crackers: We like serving a cheese ball with a variety of crackers (it makes for a more eye-catching presentation).

Directions

Step 1: Combine the ingredients

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In a small bowl, combine the cheeses. Stir in the cranberries, vegetables and pepper sauce.

Step 2: Shape the cheese ball

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Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic.

Step 3: Refrigerate

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Refrigerate your cranberry cheese ball for one hour or until it’s firm.

Step 4: Prepare to serve

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Roll the cheese ball in the pecans. Serve it with crackers, toast or another dipping vehicle.

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Cranberry Cheese Ball Variations

• Use fresh herbs: We also like adding 1 tablespoon or so of chopped rosemary or parsley to a cranberry cheese ball.
• Add bacon: A bit of cooked bacon really takes this dish to another level.

How to Store a Cranberry Cheese Ball

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. (Leftover cheese ball goes great in omelets or frittatas, crumbled over salads or added to homemade mac and cheese, by the way.)

How long does a cranberry cheese ball last?

A cranberry pecan cheese ball will last for at least three days when stored properly.

Cranberry Cheese Ball Tips

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What pairs well with a cranberry cheese ball?

We love pairing a cranberry cheese ball with good crackers or crostini alongside sliced pears and apples.

Is there a good sauce to serve with this cranberry cheese ball?

We recommend serving your cranberry pecan cheese ball with a side of tangy chutney or fruity jam.

Can I double this cranberry pecan cheese ball recipe?

Yes, you could double or even triple this recipe and make two or three balls. You can even form a bunch of smaller balls.