Cranberry Cheese Ball

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheese ball is a showstopper that’s simple to make. The creamy goat or feta cheese base pairs perfectly with the sweetness of honey and dried cranberries, while pecans or walnuts add crunch and texture. A sprinkle of cinnamon and fresh parsley adds depth and a pop of color. It’s elegant, delicious, and perfect with crackers, sliced bread, or fresh veggies.

Ingredients

• 10 oz goat cheese or feta cheese
• 6 oz cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons honey, plus extra for garnish
• 1 cup diced pecans or walnuts, divided
• 1/2 cup diced dried cranberries or dried cherries
• 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley

Directions

1. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine goat or feta cheese, cream cheese, cinnamon, and honey. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Add mix-ins: Fold in half of the diced nuts, dried cranberries, and parsley.
3. Shape the cheese ball: Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Form into a ball and wrap tightly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
4. Coat the cheese ball: Unwrap and roll the cheese ball in the remaining diced nuts, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Serve: Drizzle with extra honey before serving, and garnish with additional parsley or cranberries if desired. Serve with crackers, bread slices, or fresh vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10–12 appetizer servings
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 1 hour
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Swap cranberries for dried cherries, blueberries, or apricots.
• Use different nuts like almonds or pistachios for variety.
• Add a teaspoon of orange zest or a splash of bourbon for extra flavor.
• Roll the cheese ball in pomegranate seeds for a festive red finish.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and chill it a day in advance for easier serving and enhanced flavor.

Can I use all cream cheese instead of goat or feta?

Yes, but the cheese ball will be milder in flavor.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, use vegan cream cheese and a plant-based cheese alternative.

Can I freeze the cheese ball?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cheese may change.

What can I serve with this cheese ball?

Serve with crackers, toasted bread, pretzels, or fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers.

Conclusion

Cranberry Cheese Ball is an easy, elegant, and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for holiday parties or special gatherings. With its creamy texture, sweet cranberries, crunchy nuts, and festive appearance, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Cranberry Cheese Ball

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This Cranberry Cheese Ball is a festive, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or entertaining guests. Creamy cheese, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy nuts, and a touch of honey come together in a beautiful, easy-to-serve cheese ball that doubles as a centerpiece for your appetizer spread.

• Author: Julia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 10–12 appetizer servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

10 oz goat cheese or feta cheese

6 oz cream cheese

2 teaspoons cinnamon

3 tablespoons honey, plus extra for garnish

1 cup diced pecans or walnuts, divided

1/2 cup diced dried cranberries or dried cherries

1/4 cup minced fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine goat or feta cheese, cream cheese, cinnamon, and honey. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Fold in half of the diced nuts, dried cranberries, and parsley.
3. Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Form into a ball and wrap tightly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
4. Unwrap and roll the cheese ball in the remaining diced nuts, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Drizzle with extra honey before serving, and garnish with additional parsley or cranberries if desired. Serve with crackers, bread slices, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

Swap cranberries for dried cherries, blueberries, or apricots.

Use different nuts like almonds or pistachios for variety.

Add a teaspoon of orange zest or a splash of bourbon for extra flavor.

Roll the cheese ball in pomegranate seeds for a festive red finish.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg