Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls

These Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls are the perfect festive appetizer for any occasion. Creamy goat cheese is rolled in sweet, tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, creating a delicious contrast of flavors and textures. With the vibrant colors and rich taste, these cheese balls are sure to impress at holiday parties, gatherings, or as a savory snack. Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh fruit for the ultimate appetizer experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Holiday Perfect: The bright red cranberries and green pecans give this dish a festive touch.
Balanced Flavor: The creamy tang of goat cheese is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients that come together quickly, with no baking required.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Balls
Goat Cheese: A creamy and tangy base for the cheese ball.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a tart, slightly sweet flavor.
Pecans: Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty taste.
Cream Cheese: Softened to enhance the creaminess and texture of the cheese ball.
Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the tangy goat cheese.
Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a bit of fresh, herby flavor and color.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese and softened cream cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Add honey to the cheese mixture, and stir until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Form the Cheese Balls
Using your hands, divide the mixture into 2 or 3 portions and shape each portion into a ball.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Balls
Finely chop the dried cranberries and pecans.
Roll the cheese balls in the chopped cranberries and pecans, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.

Step 4: Chill and Serve
Place the cheese balls on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to firm up.
Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh fruit for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 cheese ball (about 2 tablespoons)
Calories: ~150
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 80mg
Total Carbohydrates: 7g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 5g

FAQ

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls up to 2 days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
2. Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
   Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios as a substitute for pecans.
3. What other fruits can I add to the cheese ball?
   You can experiment with dried cherries, apricots, or even fresh fig slices for a different flavor.
4. Can I make these cheese balls without honey?
   Yes, you can omit the honey if you prefer a less sweet cheese ball or replace it with agave syrup or maple syrup.
5. Can I serve this with something other than crackers?
   Yes, these cheese balls pair well with crostini, vegetable sticks, or even fresh fruits like apple slices and grapes.
6. How do I store leftovers?
   Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
7. Can I freeze the cheese balls?
   Yes, you can freeze the cheese balls before coating them in the cranberries and pecans. Once frozen, coat them in the cranberries and pecans before serving.
8. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   It’s best to use dried cranberries for this recipe as they have a more concentrated sweetness and won’t release moisture. If using fresh cranberries, be sure to cook them first to reduce their tartness.
9. Can I use goat cheese that’s flavored?
   Yes, you can use flavored goat cheese, such as herb or garlic goat cheese, to give these cheese balls a unique twist.
10. What is the best way to serve these cheese balls?
    Serve them on a platter with an assortment of crackers, crostini, and fresh fruit like apple slices and grapes for a well-rounded appetizer experience.

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