Description
This Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is a festive and flavorful appetizer, perfect for holiday gatherings or parties. Creamy goat cheese, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans come together to create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- Crackers, bread, or veggies for serving
Instructions
- Combine the Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese and cream cheese. Use a spoon or hand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor: Stir in 1/4 cup of the chopped cranberries, 1/4 cup of the chopped pecans, honey, and rosemary (if using). Mix well.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape it into a ball, then wrap it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: In a shallow dish, combine the remaining cranberries and pecans. Roll the chilled cheese ball in the mixture until fully coated.
- Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving plate and surround it with crackers, bread slices, or fresh vegetables. Drizzle with a bit of honey for extra sweetness, if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans if preferred.
- For a savory twist, add a pinch of black pepper or garlic powder to the cheese mixture.
- This cheese ball can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes