Having friends over soon? Or maybe planning a quiet get-together? I always look for easy and bright appetizers that everyone loves. Today, I’m sharing two fantastic cheese ball recipes that feature the lovely taste of cranberries.
These cheese ball recipes are simple to put together and perfect for making ahead. You’ll find one with tangy goat cheese and another with a creamy, classic blend. Both are sure to be a hit at any gathering you host.
Jump to Recipe:
Bright Cranberry Goat Cheese Balls for Easy Entertaining
These small, creamy balls are packed with tangy goat cheese and fresh, tart cranberries. They are perfect for serving as individual bites at any party you plan.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Goat Cheese: Use a good quality log of goat cheese. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing so it’s easier to work with.
- Fresh Cranberries: Finely chop fresh cranberries. Their tartness cuts through the richness of the cheese really well. If you only have dried, use those, but fresh is best here.
- Fresh Herbs: A little bit of fresh rosemary or thyme adds a nice smell and taste. Chop them very fine to mix evenly.
What You Need
- 8 oz soft goat cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or pistachios (for coating)
⏱️ Time: 15 minutes prep, 30 minutes chill🍽️ Yields: 12-15 small balls
How to Make It
Step 1: Mix the Cheese Base
In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps for the best texture. You can use a fork or a hand mixer for this part.
Step 2: Add Flavor & Shape
Gently stir in the finely chopped fresh cranberries, chopped parsley or chives, and black pepper. Once everything is mixed well, roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls. Aim for about 1-inch in size.
Step 3: Coat & Chill
Place the chopped pecans or pistachios in a shallow dish. Roll each cheese ball in the nuts until fully coated. Arrange the coated balls on a plate and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
📝 Final Note
You can make these cheese balls a day ahead. Keep them covered in the fridge, and bring them out about 15 minutes before you want to serve them.
Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball for Your Holiday Table
This classic cheese ball is creamy, cheesy, and full of sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy pecans. It’s a wonderful spread for crackers at any gathering, big or small.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Cream Cheese: Always start with cream cheese at room temperature. This makes sure your cheese ball is smooth and easy to mix without lumps.
- Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a good bite, or a mild one if you prefer. Grate it yourself for better texture than pre-shredded cheese.
- Toasted Pecans: Toasted pecans have a deeper flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, then chop when cool.
What You Need
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (for coating)
⏱️ Time: 20 minutes prep, 1 hour chill🍽️ Yields: 1 large cheese ball, serves 8-10
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s very smooth. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped dried cranberries, sliced green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until just combined.
Step 2: Shape the Ball
Lay a piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Scrape the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help you form the mixture into a neat ball shape. Try to get it as round as possible.
Step 3: Coat and Chill
Place the chopped pecans on a separate piece of plastic wrap or in a shallow dish. Unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the chopped pecans, pressing lightly so the nuts stick all over. Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
📝 Final Note
Serve this cheese ball with your favorite crackers, pretzel crisps, or sliced apples. It’s a great make-ahead item for parties.