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Friendsgiving Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: Easy 3-Ingredient Recipe

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A tangy, sweet, and crunchy appetizer perfect for Friendsgiving. This easy cheese ball combines cream cheese, butter, and dried cranberries, coated in toasted pecans for a festive and crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

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  • 16 ounces full-fat brick-style cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries (craisins), roughly chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves, toasted and chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

Instructions

  1. Prep ingredients: Let cream cheese and butter soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Chop dried cranberries into medium pieces and pecans into small, bite-sized pieces.
  2. Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (1-2 minutes). Scrape down sides. Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt; mix on low until combined.
  3. Add cranberries: Fold the chopped dried cranberries into the cheese mixture using a spatula until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Shape the ball: Place the mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap. Using lightly dampened hands, gather and roll the mixture into a smooth sphere. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to firm up.
  6. Roll in nuts: Unwrap the chilled cheese ball. Pour chopped pecans onto a plate and roll the cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to coat evenly.
  7. Serve: Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve with crackers, apple slices, or carrot sticks.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese and butter are fully softened to avoid lumps. Toasting pecans enhances flavor. The cheese ball can be made up to 3 days in advance; roll in nuts just before serving to maintain crunch. Do not freeze the nut-coated ball.

Nutrition

Keywords: Friendsgiving, cheese ball, cranberry pecan, appetizer, easy recipe, holiday food, no bake, party snack

Find it online: https://shimmersnack.com/friendsgiving-cranberry-pecan-cheese-ball-easy-3-ingredient-recipe/