Description
A festive and flavorful cheese ball packed with cranberries, pecans, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for holiday parties and gatherings!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Crackers, pretzels, or vegetables for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled blue cheese, and crumbled goat cheese.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Mix everything together until well combined and smooth.
- Add the Mix-Ins: Add the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, chopped fresh parsley, and thinly sliced green onions to the cheese mixture.
- Gently fold the mix-ins into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
- Form the Cheese Ball: Line a large plate or baking sheet with plastic wrap.
- Using your hands, shape the cheese mixture into a ball.
- Place the cheese ball on the prepared plate or baking sheet. Wrap it tightly with the plastic wrap.
- Chill the Cheese Ball: Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Serve: Before serving, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Serve with your favorite crackers, pretzels, or vegetables.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like Gruyere, Swiss, or pepper jack.
- Nut Variations: Use walnuts, almonds, or pistachios instead of pecans.
- Herb Variations: Try rosemary, thyme, or chives.
- Sweet and Savory: Add chopped dates or figs.
- Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Coating Options: Roll the cheese ball in everything bagel seasoning, chopped bacon, or crushed pretzels.
- Make it Ahead: Can be made up to 3 days in advance.
- Cheese Ball Too Soft: Add powdered sugar or chill longer.
- Cheese Ball Too Dry: Add milk or cream.
- Mix-Ins Not Sticking: Press them on gently or lightly moisten the cheese ball.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes