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Onion Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

This delightful cheese ball combines cream cheese, sharp white cheddar, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans for a perfect appetizer.
Prep Time15 minutes
Total Time2 hours
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

Cheese Base

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Make sure it's at room temperature.
  • 2 cups sharp white cheddar, shredded Freshly shredded is preferred.

Add-ins

  • 1 cup Craisins (dried cranberries)
  • ½ cup green onions, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 ⅓ cups toasted pecan halves, chopped Toast in a dry skillet for best flavor.

Instructions

  • Step 1: Start by measuring out all your ingredients. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure it mixes smoothly with the other components.
  • Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp white cheddar cheese. Mix together with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  • Step 3: Add in the Craisins, thinly sliced green onions, and chopped parsley to the cheese mixture. Mix again until everything is evenly distributed.
  • Step 4: Using your clean hands, gather the mixture and form a ball. You can make it as big or small as you prefer.
  • Step 5: Spread the chopped toasted pecans onto a clean surface. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans until fully coated, pressing gently to help them stick.
  • Step 6: Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and cover it with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  • Step 7: Before serving, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly. Serve with crackers, sliced veggies, or your favorite bread.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Electric Mixer

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese. Don't skip the chilling step!