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Flavorful Cheese Ball Recipe with Cranberry Pecan Crust and Herb Crackers

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A festive and easy-to-make cheese ball combining cream cheese and sharp cheddar, rolled in a sweet-tart cranberry pecan crust, served with savory herb crackers. Perfect for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (120 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons green onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) pecans, finely chopped
  • Herb crackers (such as rosemary or thyme flavored)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped dried cranberries and pecans. Set aside.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with shredded sharp cheddar cheese until smooth and combined, using an electric mixer if available.
  3. Stir in chopped green onions, minced parsley, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
  4. Lay a piece of plastic wrap on your work surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and gather the plastic wrap to form a compact ball. Twist the ends to tighten and smooth the surface.
  5. Unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the cranberry and pecan mixture, pressing lightly so the crust sticks well on all sides.
  6. Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours, to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm up.
  7. Arrange the cheese ball on a serving platter surrounded by herb crackers. Let it sit out for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.

Notes

Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing. Chill the cheese ball for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor and texture. Press the cranberry pecan crust gently but firmly to ensure it sticks well. If cheese is too soft after mixing, chill briefly before shaping. Herb crackers can be substituted with gluten-free crackers or crisp vegetable slices for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, cranberry pecan crust, herb crackers, appetizer, party snack, holiday recipe, easy cheese ball

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/flavorful-cheese-ball-recipe-with-cranberry-pecan-crust-and-herb-crackers/