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Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese: 5 Irresistibly Festive Bites

by basmer

13 de November de 2025

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Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese is not just an appetizer; it’s a festive celebration of flavors! These delightful mini cheese balls combine creamy cheese with the sweet tartness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, they are sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that brings joy to every occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese

This Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese is incredibly versatile and boasts numerous benefits. First, it’s a quick and simple recipe that requires no cooking, making it perfect for busy hosts. You’ll find that these mini cheese balls are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that everyone loves. The combination of cranberries and pecans provides a delightful contrast in textures, while the creaminess of the cheese ties it all together. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences, whether you want a mini cranberry pecan cheese ball or a cranberry pecan cheese dip. Plus, this dish can be made ahead of time, making it a stress-free choice for any gathering. It’s a festive addition to a mini cheese platter with cranberries and pecans!

Ingredients for Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese

Gather these items:

16 oz Cream Cheese, softened
1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
½ cup Dried Cranberries, finely chopped
½ cup Pecans, toasted and finely chopped
2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
½ tsp Garlic Powder (optional)
½ tsp Smoked Paprika (optional)
Crackers, Pretzels, or Veggie Sticks for serving

How to Make Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
Step 2: Fold in half of the chopped cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Stir until evenly combined.
Step 3: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
Step 4: Once chilled, scoop out 1-inch portions and roll them into smooth balls.
Step 5: In a shallow dish, combine the remaining cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Roll each cheese ball in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Step 6: Place the coated cheese balls on a platter and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese

Keep these in mind:

These cheese balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
For an extra flavor kick, try adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Serve with a variety of dippers for a fun presentation.

Best Ways to Serve Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese

There are many delightful ways to serve these mini cheese balls. They make a wonderful addition to a festive spread as a cranberry nut cheese appetizer. You can pair them with an array of crackers or even fresh veggies for a healthier option. For a more elaborate display, consider creating a mini cheese platter with cranberries and pecans alongside other cheeses and fruits.

Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese: 5 Irresistibly Festive Bites - Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese

To keep your Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can make the cheese balls and then roll them in the cranberry-pecan mixture just before serving. This ensures the coating stays fresh and crunchy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese

What’s the secret to perfect Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese?

The secret lies in using high-quality, softened cream cheese and ensuring that the mixture is well-chilled before forming the balls. Chilling helps them hold their shape and enhance the flavors. Don’t forget to mix in a variety of nuts and fruits to elevate the taste!

Can I make Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cheese balls can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just make sure to roll them in the cranberry and pecan mixture right before serving for the best texture and flavor. This makes them a great option for holiday gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese?

One common mistake is not allowing the cheese mixture to chill long enough, which can make forming the balls difficult. Ensure you give the mixture adequate time to firm up. Also, be careful not to overmix when folding in the add-ins to maintain a nice texture.

Variations of Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients! You can make a cranberry and pecan cheese log instead of balls, or try a vegan cranberry pecan cheese recipe using cashew cheese. Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can also introduce an aromatic twist. For a fun holiday treat, consider making holiday cranberry pecan cheese bites shaped like festive ornaments!

In conclusion, Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese is a delightful and versatile appetizer that fits perfectly into any gathering. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, it’s bound to be a hit!

For more festive recipes, check out our Cranberry Orange Pancakes or Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. If you’re looking for a delicious dip, try our Cranberry Jalapeno Dip for a spicy twist!

Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese: 5 Irresistibly Festive Bites

Author: basmer
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 20 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls are the perfect bite-sized appetizer, combining creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans.

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz Cream Cheese, softened
1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
½ cup Dried Cranberries, finely chopped
½ cup Pecans, toasted and finely chopped
2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
½ tsp Garlic Powder (optional)
½ tsp Smoked Paprika (optional)
Crackers, Pretzels, or Veggie Sticks for serving

Instructions

In a medium-sized bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
Fold in half of the chopped cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Stir until evenly combined.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
Once chilled, scoop out 1-inch portions and roll them into smooth balls.
In a shallow dish, combine the remaining cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Roll each cheese ball in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Place the coated cheese balls on a platter and refrigerate until ready to serve.