Description
A festive, no-bake appetizer with a creamy, savory blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, cranberries, pecans, and green onions. A beautiful and delicious centerpiece for any holiday platter.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 4 green onions, sliced, divided
- 5 tbsp chopped pecans, divided
- 5 tbsp dried cranberries, divided
- Assorted crackers, for serving
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and cheddar until smooth.
2. Fold in 2 sliced green onions, 3 tbsp pecans, and 3 tbsp cranberries until evenly distributed.
3. Scrape mixture onto plastic wrap and form into a ball. Twist wrap tightly to secure. Chill for at least 1–2 hours until firm.
4. On a plate, combine the remaining 2 sliced green onions, 2 tbsp pecans, and 2 tbsp cranberries.
5. Unwrap the firm cheese ball and roll it in the coating mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving with crackers.
Notes
Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free texture.
Shred your own cheddar for a creamier result.
Do not skip chilling; it helps the ball hold its shape.
Toast pecans in a dry skillet for deeper, nuttier flavor.
Can be made up to 3 days in advance; coat just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 recipe
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg