Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball 🎄🧀

A Festive Appetizer Bursting with Holiday Cheer

Every holiday gathering deserves that one dish everyone gathers around — creamy, colorful, and irresistible. This Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball is exactly that. With tangy cream cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and the crunch of toasted pecans, it’s a blend of flavors and textures that feels like pure celebration.

It’s simple to prepare, easy to make ahead, and always the first thing to disappear at any party. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a festive potluck, this cheese ball makes a show-stopping centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🎅 Festive & beautiful. Red cranberries and golden pecans make it look like a holiday ornament!
🧀 Creamy & tangy. The smooth cream cheese base balances the sweet and nutty mix-ins perfectly.
⏰ Quick to make. Just mix, chill, and serve — no baking required.
🍽️ Crowd-pleaser. Pairs beautifully with crackers, baguette, or veggies.
🌟 Make-ahead magic. Chill it overnight, and it’s ready to impress the next day.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for rolling)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Optional: extra chopped pecans or powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions:

1. Mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cranberries, chopped pecans, Parmesan, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth and evenly blended.
2. Form the ball. Shape the mixture into a round ball using your hands or a spatula, pressing gently to hold its form.
3. Chill. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to firm up and let the flavors meld.
4. Roll & garnish. Just before serving, roll in extra chopped pecans or dust lightly with powdered sugar for a festive look.
5. Serve & enjoy. Place on a platter with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | ❄️ Chill Time: 2 hours | ⏳ Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
🍴 Servings: 10–12 | ⚖️ Calories: Approx. 220 per serving

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – Large enough to stir the cheese mixture easily.
• Spatula or spoon – For combining and shaping the cheese ball.
• Plastic wrap – To help mold and chill the ball.
• Serving platter – For a festive presentation with crackers and garnishes.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

Cream Cheese – Provides the creamy, rich base that holds everything together.
Dried Cranberries – Add tart sweetness and vibrant color for a festive touch.
Pecans – Bring nutty flavor and crunch, balancing the creamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth and a hint of saltiness to the mix.
Sugar & Cinnamon – Give gentle sweetness and warmth that taste like the holidays.

What to Serve With This Holiday Cheese Ball

This festive cheese ball pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory sides:

🥖 Crackers or toasted baguette slices – Classic and always reliable.
🥕 Vegetable sticks – Carrots, celery, or bell pepper slices for a fresh balance.
🍇 Grapes or apple slices – Sweet fruit complements the tangy cheese.
🍷 Sparkling cider or grape juice – Adds a celebratory note without alcohol.
🍯 Honey drizzle or cranberry jam – For an extra touch of sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Pecan Holiday Cheese Ball brings together everything we love about the season — warmth, color, and a little sparkle on the table. It’s the perfect mix of creamy, crunchy, and sweet, and it turns any gathering into something special.

📌 Love festive holiday appetizers? Pin the image below to save this recipe for later!

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