LUNCH

Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls: A Sweet Delight

by basmer

12 de December de 2025

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Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls are the perfect appetizer that combines sweet cranberries with creamy goat cheese. They bring a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that is hard to resist. These little bites are not just visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together, these cheese balls will surely impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat

There are countless reasons to adore these Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring no cooking at all, making them perfect for busy hosts. They combine the tanginess of goat cheese with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans, creating a harmonious flavor profile. These bites are vegetarian-friendly, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. Additionally, they can be made ahead of time, allowing for stress-free entertaining. With options to customize, such as adding spices or herbs, your guests will be amazed at your gourmet touch. Enjoy them as a starter or a delightful snack that pairs well with a variety of beverages.

Ingredients for Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat

Gather these items:

10 oz Goat cheese
6 oz Cream cheese
2 teaspoons Cinnamon
3 tablespoons Honey
1.5 cups Pecans (diced, divided)
1 cup Dried cranberries (diced)
0.5 cups Fresh parsley (minced)

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

Step 1: Beat together the goat cheese, cream cheese, cinnamon, and honey in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Fold in 1/2 cup of the diced pecans.
Step 2: Prepare your surface by laying out a sheet of parchment paper on your countertop.
Step 3: Mix the remaining diced pecans, dried cranberries, and minced parsley in the center of the parchment for your coating.
Step 4: Scoop out the cheese mixture using a large cookie scoop, roll into a ball, and toss in the pecan-cranberry mixture to coat.
Step 5: Chill the cheese balls in the refrigerator until ready to serve. They can be prepared up to two days in advance.
Step 6: Serve with style by drizzling extra honey on top, and enjoy with crackers or on toothpicks.

Pro Tips for the Best Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat

Keep these in mind:

Can be prepared up to two days in advance.
Great served with crackers or on toothpicks.
For added flavor, experiment with different nuts or spices.
Make sure to let the cheese balls chill properly for better texture.

Best Ways to Serve Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat

These cheese balls shine on a platter! Consider pairing them with an assortment of crackers, fresh fruits, or even a charcuterie board for an elegant presentation. They also make a wonderful topping for salads, especially a goat cheese and pecan salad with cranberries, adding a gourmet touch to any meal.

How to Store and Reheat Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat

Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week. If you want to prepare them in advance, follow the final step of chilling before serving. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, ensuring you always have a delightful treat ready to go!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat

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

The secret lies in the balance of flavors and the texture of the cheese balls. Ensure that you mix the ingredients thoroughly for the best results. The combination of goat cheese with cranberries and pecans is key to achieving that perfect bite.

Can I make Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cheese balls can be prepared up to two days in advance. This makes them an ideal choice for parties or gatherings where you want to minimize last-minute preparations.

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

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure that the cheeses are at room temperature before mixing, which helps achieve a smoother consistency. Be careful not to overmix the ingredients, as this can affect the texture of the cheese balls.

Variations of Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different variations! You can add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a seasonal flair. Consider using mini goat cheese bites with cranberries and pecans for a different shape, or incorporate other dried fruits such as apricots for an interesting twist. This recipe is versatile enough to match any occasion!

For more delicious recipes, check out Cranberry Orange Pancakes or Cranberry Butter for a delightful spread. You can also explore Cranberry Jalapeno Dip for a spicy twist!

Additionally, if you’re interested in more appetizers, check out Last Recipes for a variety of options.

Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls: A Sweet Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 75 min
Yield: 20 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls combine sweet cranberries and creamy goat cheese for a perfect appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

10 oz Goat cheese
6 oz Cream cheese
2 teaspoons Cinnamon
3 tablespoons Honey
1.5 cups Pecans (diced, divided)
1 cup Dried cranberries (diced)
0.5 cups Fresh parsley (minced)

Instructions

Beat together the goat cheese, cream cheese, cinnamon, and honey in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Fold in 1/2 cup of the diced pecans.
Prepare your surface by laying out a sheet of parchment paper on your countertop.
Mix the remaining diced pecans, dried cranberries, and minced parsley in the center of the parchment for your coating.
Scoop out the cheese mixture using a large cookie scoop, roll into a ball, and toss in the pecan-cranberry mixture to coat.
Chill the cheese balls in the refrigerator until ready to serve. They can be prepared up to two days in advance.
Serve with style by drizzling extra honey on top, and enjoy with crackers or on toothpicks.