Description
A delightful and easy-to-make cheese ball party snack that combines creamy full-fat cream cheese with sharp white cheddar, herbs, nuts, and dried cranberries. Perfectly coated with a crunchy and colorful mix of pecans, pumpkin seeds, and more, this appetizer is a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 cups sharp white cheddar, shredded
- 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 0.125 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Coating and Garnishes
- 0.5 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped (divided)
- 0.5 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped (divided)
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped (divided)
- 1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped (divided)
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
- Rosemary sprigs, for garnish
- Assorted crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the shredded cheddar, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and half of the pecans, cranberries, parsley, and chives. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Lightly moisten your hands with water to prevent sticking, then gather the cheese mixture and shape it into a firm ball.
- Prepare the Coating Mixture: On a clean surface, combine the remaining pecans, cranberries, chives, and the pumpkin seeds. Mix evenly to create a colorful and crunchy coating.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: Roll the shaped cheese ball over the coating mixture, pressing gently with your hands to ensure an even and complete covering on all sides.
- Chill to Set: Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes to allow it to firm up and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator, unwrap it, and transfer it to a serving platter. Surround with an assortment of crackers and garnish with rosemary sprigs for a festive presentation. Invite guests to serve themselves and enjoy this flavorful party snack.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese to ensure a rich and creamy texture with bold flavor.
- To toast pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes.
- Moistening your hands slightly helps prevent the cheese mixture from sticking while shaping the ball.
- You can customize the coating with other nuts or dried fruits depending on your preference or what you have available.
- The cheese ball can be made a day ahead; refrigerate tightly covered to maintain freshness.
- Serve with a variety of crackers, vegetable sticks, or bread slices for a versatile appetizer presentation.
