This fun Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball is a delightfully creamy treat mixed with tart cranberries and crunchy nuts. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers at parties!
Making it is a breeze! Just mix everything together, shape it into a ball, and serve. I love how festive it looks, and it always disappears fast. Who can resist a cheesy snack? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The base of this recipe! Full-fat gives a creamy texture, but you can use low-fat or vegan cream cheese if needed.
Dried Cranberries: I love the sweetness they add! If you’re looking for less sweetness, you might consider using raisins or chopped apricots instead. Just make sure they are chopped into small pieces.
Nuts: Pecans are my favorite for their rich flavor, but walnuts or even chopped almonds work too. If anyone has a nut allergy, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be great alternatives.
Parsley: This is optional, but it brightens up the flavor and adds a touch of color. You could replace it with chopped chives or green onions for a different taste.
How Do You Shape a Perfect Cheese Ball?
Shaping the cheese ball can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- After mixing, use clean hands to gather the mixture into a ball. Make sure to compact it well, so it holds together.
- If it’s too sticky, you can chill it in the fridge for a bit before shaping.
- Once shaped, rolling it in the chopped nuts adds a delightful crunch and helps maintain its shape.
Chilling is key! It helps set the ball, making it easier to slice or scoop with crackers. Trust me, waiting an hour is worth it for the best taste and presentation!
Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Cheese & Nuts:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, plus extra for coating
Filling Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Garnishing:
- Whole fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cream cheese ball takes about 10 minutes to prep. Plus, you should chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let all those yummy flavors meld together. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 10 minutes before it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, start by combining the softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, and chopped pecans (remember to save some pecans for the coating!). Add in the finely chopped parsley if you’re using it, along with the garlic powder and salt. Mix everything together thoroughly until it’s well combined. This is where those flavors start to come together!
2. Shaping the Cheese Ball:
Using your hands or a spatula, carefully shape the mixture into a compact ball. It’s okay if it’s a bit sticky—just make sure to press it together well!
3. Coating the Ball:
Now it’s time to coat your cheese ball in the reserved chopped nuts. Take a plate and spread the nuts out. Roll your cheese ball in the nuts until it’s fully coated. This gives it a delightful crunch and a pretty appearance!
4. Plating and Chilling:
Transfer the cheese ball onto a serving plate. Surround it with whole fresh cranberries for a festive touch. It’s looking good already! Now, cover it with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend and the ball firm up.
5. Serving Time!
When you’re ready to serve, arrange your favorite crackers around the cheese ball. Enjoy this savory, creamy delight as a perfect appetizer for gatherings or relaxed evenings at home. You’ll love how it tastes!
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried?
Fresh cranberries are quite tart and not suitable for this recipe. Dried cranberries provide the sweetness needed to balance the flavors. If you really want to use fresh, consider adding a bit of sugar to them to mimic the sweetness!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover cheese ball can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great snack for quick bites later on!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese ball up to two days in advance. Just follow the instructions, chill it, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. It allows the flavors to develop even more!
What Can I Serve With This Cheese Ball?
Cream cheese balls pair wonderfully with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, and even sliced fruits like apples or pears for a sweet twist. Get creative with your serving options!
