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Easy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with Bacon

cranberry pecan cheese ball - featured image
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This creamy, savory-sweet cheese ball combines cream cheese, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans for an irresistible appetizer that disappears at every party. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires no baking, and can be prepared up to three days ahead.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 slices crispy bacon, crumbled (about 1 cup)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Pinch of salt
  • ¾ cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • Extra dried cranberries and crumbled bacon for garnish (about 2 tablespoons each)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay out bacon slices in a single layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes until crispy. Let cool completely on a paper towel-lined plate, then crumble into small pieces.
  2. While bacon cools, spread pecan pieces on a small baking sheet or in a dry skillet. Toast over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking occasionally, until fragrant. Let cool completely, then finely chop.
  3. Take cream cheese out of the fridge at least 30-60 minutes before starting to soften. It should be soft enough to easily press a finger into.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Scrape down sides of bowl.
  5. Add shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon (reserve 2 tablespoons for garnish), chopped cranberries (reserve 2 tablespoons), sliced green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix on low speed just until combined.
  6. Lightly wet hands with cold water. Scoop mixture out of bowl and form into a ball using palms, rotating gently. Do not squeeze too hard.
  7. Spread chopped pecans and fresh parsley on a large plate. Roll cheese ball gently in pecan mixture, pressing lightly so nuts adhere. Press reserved bacon bits and cranberries into the top for garnish.
  8. Wrap cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days.
  9. About 15-20 minutes before serving, remove from fridge to soften slightly. Place on serving board surrounded by crackers, sliced baguette, apple slices, or celery sticks.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and shred cheddar from a block. Let cream cheese soften completely for a smooth texture. Wet hands with cold water to prevent sticking when shaping. The cheese ball can be made up to 3 days ahead; flavors improve after a day in the fridge. For a nut-free version, skip pecans and use everything bagel seasoning or extra parsley for coating.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, cranberry pecan cheese ball, bacon cheese ball, easy appetizer, holiday appetizer, party food, make-ahead appetizer

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