Mini Candied Pecan Cranberry Goat Cheese Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it feels elegant but is actually very easy to make. The balance of tangy cheese, crunchy nuts, and sweet cranberries makes every bite addictive. They’re also versatile I can serve them with crackers, fruit, or just as little finger-food snacks.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
▢8 oz honey goat cheese (regular works too; honeyed is my fav!)
▢½ cup pecans
▢½ TBSP unsalted butter
▢2 TBSP brown sugar
▢pinch of salt
▢1/4-1/2 cup dried cranberries
▢¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
▢1 TBSP fresh chopped parsley

Directions

1. I start by making the candied pecans: in a small skillet, I melt the butter, then add the pecans, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. I cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar melts and coats the pecans. I transfer them to parchment paper to cool, then chop finely.
2. I finely chop the dried cranberries and mix them with the candied pecans, cinnamon (if using), and parsley.
3. I roll the goat cheese into small bite-sized balls.
4. I roll each cheese ball in the pecan-cranberry-parsley mixture until well coated.
5. I refrigerate them for at least 20 minutes to firm up before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12–15 mini cheese balls, depending on how big I roll them. It takes me 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to chill, so they’re ready in under 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. I also like to drizzle honey over the finished cheese balls for extra sweetness. For a holiday twist, I add a bit of orange zest to the coating mixture.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t reheat them—they’re best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare them the day before and keep them chilled until serving.

Do I need to use honey goat cheese?

No, plain goat cheese works well, but I love the touch of sweetness from honey goat cheese.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

I don’t recommend it because fresh cranberries are too tart and watery.

How do I keep the cheese from sticking to my hands?

I lightly oil or dampen my hands before rolling the cheese into balls.

Can I make one large cheese ball instead of minis?

Yes, I roll everything into one big cheese ball and coat it the same way.

What can I serve these with?

I like them with crackers, sliced apples, or pears.

Can I freeze goat cheese balls?

I don’t recommend freezing because the texture changes once thawed.

Can I use flavored goat cheese?

Yes, I sometimes use cranberry or herb goat cheese for variety.

How do I make them extra festive?

I add a sprig of rosemary or a decorative toothpick for presentation.

Can I serve them warm?

No, I prefer them chilled since warming makes the goat cheese too soft.

Conclusion

I love making these mini candied pecan cranberry goat cheese balls because they’re simple, festive, and always a hit. With creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and sweet-tart cranberries, they’re the perfect little bites for holiday parties or any special gathering.

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