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Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with Orange Zest

A festive and flavorful cheese ball perfect for holiday gatherings or a simple appetizer. Cream cheese, cranberries, pecans, and a hint of orange create a delicious combination.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 ounces Cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup Dried cranberries chopped
  • 1/2 cup Pecans roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon Orange juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper freshly ground, or to taste
  • 1/4 cup Green onions chopped, optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Serving Platter

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  2. Stir in the chopped cranberries, pecans, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  3. Shape the mixture into a ball.
  4. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Once chilled, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in any desired garnish (optional). Chopped green onions are a great choice.
  6. Serve the cheese ball on a serving platter with crackers, pretzels, or vegetables for dipping.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese. You can also experiment with other nuts or dried fruits. Store leftover cheese ball in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.