Cranberry Pecan Mini Cheese Balls are the delightful bite-sized wonders that transform any gathering into a festive celebration. Picture this: creamy cheese mingling with crunchy pecans and sweet-tart cranberries, all rolled into perfect little spheres that practically beg for your attention. no-bake dessert alternative Mediterranean-inspired spread sweet and savory pairing. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Cheesecake Squares recipe.
Imagine serving these at your next holiday party, where every guest takes a bite and their eyes widen in delight. The explosion of flavors is sure to make them feel like they just won the appetizer lottery. Trust me; each mini cheese ball is not just a snack—it’s an experience waiting to happen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Pecan Mini Cheese Balls are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect last-minute appetizer for any event
- The flavor profile is a delightful balance of creamy, sweet, and nutty that will keep guests coming back for more
- Their visual appeal adds a festive touch to any cheese platter or holiday spread, making them the star of the show
- Plus, they are versatile enough to serve at casual get-togethers or formal dinners alike
One memorable evening, I whipped up these mini delights for my family’s game night and witnessed my cousin do the happy dance over them. It was like watching someone win the lottery but with more cheese and fewer confetti explosions.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing and a rich, creamy texture that binds everything together.
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheddar adds a delightful kick that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
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Dried Cranberries: Opt for plump cranberries that bring sweetness and vibrant color to your cheese balls.
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Pecans: Toasted pecans provide crunch and a rich nuttiness; chop them finely for even distribution.
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Fresh Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a touch of freshness and an appealing pop of green.
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Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder infuses an extra layer of flavor—don’t skip it!
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Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, balancing the flavors perfectly without overpowering the other ingredients.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Mixing the Cheesy Goodness: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. No one wants lumpy cheese balls unless you’re intentionally going for abstract art.
Add Sweetness and Crunch: Stir in dried cranberries, chopped pecans, fresh chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly distributed. The mixture should smell heavenly by now—like Thanksgiving dinner crashing into a party.
Forming Mini Balls of Joy: Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you prefer), form small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Moistening your hands will help prevent sticking—you’ll thank me later when you’re not wrestling with cheese goo.
Coating with Pecans: Roll each ball in finely chopped pecans until fully coated. This step adds visual appeal while enhancing that nutty flavor we all adore. Plus, it’s fun—like rolling dough but with less flour on your shirt!
Chill Out Time!: Place the coated mini cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up; nobody likes mushy cheese balls unless they’re from outer space.
Serve and Enjoy!: Arrange your Cranberry Pecan Mini Cheese Balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking. easy appetizer option Watch as they disappear faster than you can say “cheese!”
Now you’ve got yourself some amazing snacks that will impress anyone lucky enough to snag one! So gather around friends or family—trust me; they’ll be begging you for this recipe once they taste these little morsels of joy!
You Must Know
- Cranberry Pecan Mini Cheese Balls are not just a tasty treat; they offer a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite
- Their vibrant colors make them perfect for holiday gatherings or casual snacking, bringing joy to any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by mixing your cream cheese and seasonings until smooth. Next, fold in the cranberries and pecans before shaping into balls for an even distribution of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or add herbs like rosemary for an extra flavor kick. You can also roll the cheese balls in crushed crackers for added texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store the mini cheese balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If serving later, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- The key to creamy cheese balls is letting the cream cheese soften before mixing
- Always taste before rolling to ensure your flavors shine through
- Keep your hands wet when rolling to prevent sticking and create perfectly shaped bites
Creating these mini cheese balls always reminds me of my Aunt Martha’s holiday parties. She’d whip them up so fast, and we’d all eagerly gather around the table, waiting for our share.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works well but may alter the texture slightly.
How long do they take to prepare?
Preparation typically takes about 20-30 minutes, making it a quick recipe.
Can I freeze cranberry pecan mini cheese balls?
For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs recipe.
Absolutely! Freeze them tightly wrapped for up to three months; thaw before serving.
Cranberry Pecan Mini Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Pecan Mini Cheese Balls are the perfect festive appetizer, combining creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and sweet-tart cranberries into delightful bite-sized treats. Ideal for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, these mini cheese balls are easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests. Each bite is a burst of flavor, making them an irresistible addition to any cheese platter.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar until smooth.
- Stir in chopped cranberries, pecans, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.
- Form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) using your hands or an ice cream scoop.
- Roll each ball in finely chopped pecans until fully coated.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve chilled with toothpicks for easy snacking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
