Description
This festive Cranberry Cheeseball is a creamy and tangy appetizer combining smooth cream cheese, sharp white cheddar, and a delightful mix of dried cranberries and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any party, it offers a burst of flavor with every bite, beautifully coated in a colorful cranberry and walnut crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces white cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup chopped dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
Coating
- ¾ cup chopped dried cranberries
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped chives
- ¾ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
Instructions
- Mix the Cheese Base: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar, ¼ cup chopped dried cranberries, 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives, garlic powder, and ¼ cup roughly chopped walnuts. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a smooth, consistent mixture.
- Shape the Cheeseball: Scrape the cheese mixture from the bowl onto a clean surface or plate, then form it into a firm ball using your hands, ensuring it holds its shape well.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining chopped dried cranberries, finely chopped chives, and roughly chopped walnuts. Toss them together until evenly mixed to create the coating for the cheeseball.
- Coat the Cheeseball: Roll the formed cheeseball in the cranberry, chive, and walnut mixture, gently pressing the coating onto the surface to cover it completely and give it a festive, textured exterior.
- Chill: Wrap the coated cheeseball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up for easier serving.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator, unwrap the cheeseball, and serve chilled alongside an assortment of fresh vegetables and crackers for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- For best flavor, prepare the cheeseball a day ahead to allow it to chill and develop a richer taste.
- Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds depending on your preference.
- To make shredding easier, place cheddar cheese in the freezer for 15 minutes before grating.
- This cheeseball pairs wonderfully with crisp vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers or assorted crackers.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth mixture.
