Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball is a delightful blend of tangy cranberries and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for any gathering.
This cheese ball is a crowd-pleaser, combining the savory richness of cheddar with the sweet-tartness of cranberries. It's perfect for holiday parties or as an appetizer at any gathering.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
- Easy to make and requires no baking
- Great for entertaining or snacking
- Can be prepared in advance for convenience
A Perfect Party Appetizer
This Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball is the ultimate party appetizer that never fails to impress. Its vibrant colors and appealing presentation make it a showstopper on any cheese board. The combination of sharp cheddar and sweet cranberries creates a delightful flavor profile that guests will love. Serve it at holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or casual get-togethers, and watch it disappear in no time.
What makes this cheese ball even more enticing is its versatility. You can serve it with a variety of accompaniments, from crunchy crackers to slices of baguette or even fresh fruit. This means it can easily cater to diverse taste preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, its creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the crunch of nuts or crackers, adding another dimension to your snacking experience.
Healthier Snacking Option
In a world where healthy eating is often overlooked at gatherings, this Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball stands out as a more nutritious option. Made primarily with cream cheese and natural ingredients, it offers a balance of protein and fiber. The dried cranberries not only add a touch of sweetness but are also rich in antioxidants, making this dish a guilt-free indulgence.
By incorporating fresh green onions and optional pecans, you enhance the nutritional profile even further. The addition of nuts provides healthy fats, while the green onions deliver a fresh, zesty kick. This cheese ball is not just delicious; it also contributes to a more balanced diet, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without compromising your health.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best aspects of this Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare it in advance, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your event or simply enjoy more time with family and friends. The cheese ball can be shaped and chilled the day before, ensuring it’s ready to serve when guests arrive.
Storing it in the fridge also helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to coat it with pecans shortly before serving to maintain their crunch. This makes it an excellent choice for busy hosts who want to provide a delicious appetizer without the last-minute rush.
Ingredients
Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Combine all ingredients in a bowl for a delicious cheese ball.
Instructions
Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, chopped cranberries, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
Shape the Cheese Ball
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Gather the edges of the wrap and shape the mixture into a ball. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Coat with Pecans
If using, spread the chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the pecans until fully coated.
Serve
Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Serve with crackers, bread, or fresh fruit.
Enjoy your delicious Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball!
Storage Tips
After your gathering, you might have some leftovers, which is great news! The Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it a perfect snack for the following days, whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite crackers.
If you plan to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the cheese ball. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to three months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and it will be as good as new!
Flavor Variations
While the classic Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball is a hit, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! You can swap out the sharp cheddar for a smoked variety or even a creamy goat cheese for a tangier profile. Adding herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor further and add a fresh twist.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider incorporating spices like cayenne pepper for a kick or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences or seasonal ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball, presentation is key. Consider placing it on a wooden cheese board alongside a variety of crackers, sliced bread, and fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a range of textures and flavors for your guests to enjoy.
For an added touch, include small bowls of honey or jams nearby for drizzling. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory cheese ball, creating a delightful contrast that will leave a lasting impression. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness and variety, making your gathering even more memorable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cheese ball in advance?
Yes, it can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?
It pairs well with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are too tart; it's best to use dried cranberries for this recipe.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball
This Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball is a delightful blend of tangy cranberries and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for any gathering.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cheddar Cranberry Cheese Ball Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, chopped cranberries, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Gather the edges of the wrap and shape the mixture into a ball. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
If using, spread the chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the pecans until fully coated.
Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Serve with crackers, bread, or fresh fruit.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 4g