This tasty Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball is a perfect party dip! With a creamy texture, sweet cranberries, and crunchy nuts, it’s a crowd favorite.
Everyone loves spreading this on crackers. It’s so easy to make, and if you “accidentally” eat half before guests arrive, I promise not to tell! 😄
I enjoy making this dip hours ahead; it gives the flavors time to mix. Serve it with some fresh fruit for an extra tasty touch—such a simple delight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well, too. Cream cheese alternatives like cashew or almond cream will also work for vegan options.
Dried Cranberries: Sweetened dried cranberries add a nice contrast. If you’re looking for a less sweet option, use unsweetened cranberries or substitute with dried cherries or raisins for a twist.
Nuts: Pecans and walnuts bring great crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a fantastic alternative!
Fresh Herbs: Chives or parsley elevate the flavors. If you don’t have these, consider using dill or green onions. Fresh herbs are key for a fresh taste!
Honey or Maple Syrup: This is optional but adds extra flavor. If you want to keep it sugar-free, agave syrup or a sugar substitute can work.
How Do I Make the Perfect Cheese Ball Shape?
Shaping the cheese ball is crucial for presentation! Here’s how to do it:
- After mixing your ingredients, place the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap.
- Bring the edges of the wrap up and gather them at the top. Twist the wrap to tighten it around the mixture.
- Gently shape the wrapped mixture into a round ball using your hands. Press firmly to hold the shape without smashing it.
- Refrigerate for the best results. Keeping it in the fridge allows it to firm up nicely.
Don’t worry if your ball isn’t perfect at first! Just keep enjoying the process, and your cheese ball will impress everyone when it’s ready to serve!
Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Ball
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (plus extra whole nuts for garnish)
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and should chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the time. The longer it chills, the more delicious it will be, as all those flavors will blend beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
Start by placing the softened cream cheese into a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer or a spoon, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. You want it to be easy to mix! This is the base of your cheese ball.
2. Add the Flavorful Components:
Next, stir in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans or walnuts, and the finely chopped fresh chives or parsley. If you’re using honey or maple syrup to add a touch of sweetness, mix that in as well! Finally, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick, so adjust it to your taste. Mix everything until it’s well combined!
3. Form the Cheese Ball:
Now it’s time to shape your mixture! Transfer it onto a large piece of plastic wrap and gather the wrap around the mixture, forming it into a ball shape with your hands as you wrap it up tightly. This will help get that perfect round shape. Place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight for even better flavor).
4. Coat with Nuts:
When you’re ready to serve, take the cheese ball out of the fridge. Prepare a small plate with extra chopped nuts. Unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the chopped nuts until it’s evenly coated. This adds crunch and a lovely look!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Add a few whole nuts and a handful of dried cranberries on top of the cheese ball for a beautiful finish. Place the cheese ball on a serving platter surrounded by your favorite crackers. Now, you’re ready to serve!
6. Enjoy!
Enjoy this creamy, nutty cheese ball with your friends and family. Just spread it on the crackers, and you’ll have a delicious appetizer everyone will love!
This cranberry nut cream cheese ball combines the creamy tang of cream cheese with the sweet-tart bite of dried cranberries and crunchy nuts, making it a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind it may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. The creaminess might be a bit less indulgent, but it will still work well!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it well wrapped to maintain its texture and flavor!
Can I Make This Cheese Ball Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can use vegan cream cheese as a substitute. Just check the consistency to make sure it can hold shape. With the right brand, it will still taste delicious!
What Are Good Serving Suggestions for This Cheese Ball?
It pairs wonderfully with a variety of crackers, but you can also serve it with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery, or even pita chips for a fun twist!
