Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Why Make This Recipe

Christmas parties and gatherings are the perfect time to impress your guests with a fun and festive treat. The Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is not only easy to make but also brings a burst of flavors that complement the holiday spirit. The creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries make it a delightful appetizer that pairs well with various dippers. Plus, its charming tree shape adds a whimsical touch to your holiday spread.

How to Make Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Additional chopped pecans and cranberries for decoration
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled blue cheese.
2. Beat or stir until the cheeses are well combined, smooth, and evenly incorporated.
3. Add the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on your work surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and roughly shape it into a mound.
6. Use your hands (over the plastic wrap) to mold the cheese into a cone or tree shape, pressing firmly to compact it.
7. Wrap the shaped cheese tree tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until very firm.
8. Once chilled, unwrap the cheese tree and place it on a plate or tray.
9. Press additional chopped pecans and cranberries all over the outside of the tree to create a decorative, textured coating.
10. Transfer the cheese ball tree carefully to your serving platter. Tuck fresh parsley sprigs around the base and at the top to resemble greenery.
11. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh cut vegetables.

How to Serve Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

To serve the Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball, place it on a festive platter with an assortment of dippers. Crackers, sliced baguette, and colorful fresh vegetables work wonderfully. Encourage guests to spread or scoop the cheese onto their choice of dippers for a quick and tasty bite.

How to Store Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

If you have leftovers, wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-5 days. Just remember to bring it out a little before serving to soften it up for easy spreading.

Tips to Make Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

• Make sure to use softened cream cheese for easy mixing.
• For a smoother texture, you can use a food processor to blend the cheeses.
• Don’t hold back on the seasoning; taste the mixture before shaping it to make sure you love the flavors.
• Add more nuts or dried fruits based on your personal preference to customize the taste.

Variation

Feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts or add different dried fruits like apricots or cherries for a unique twist. You can also try different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, to create new flavor profiles.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to two days in advance. Just store it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

2. What can I serve with the cheese ball?
You can serve it with a variety of dippers, such as crackers, sliced baguette, and fresh vegetables like carrots and celery.

3. Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Freezing is not recommended because the texture may change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

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