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Easy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe with Fresh Rosemary Perfect for Holidays

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A quick and festive cheese ball combining creamy cream cheese, tart dried cranberries, crunchy toasted pecans, and aromatic fresh rosemary. Perfect for holiday gatherings and last-minute entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup (50 g) dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) pecans, chopped and toasted
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional garnish: extra chopped pecans, fresh rosemary sprigs

Instructions

  1. Toast the pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped pecans and toast for about 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Prepare the fresh rosemary: Finely chop 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, discarding tough stems.
  3. Mix the base: In a medium bowl, combine 8 oz (225 g) softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add flavorings: Stir in chopped rosemary, 1/3 cup (50 g) chopped dried cranberries, toasted pecans (reserve a small handful for coating), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly.
  5. Shape the cheese ball: Lay plastic wrap on the counter. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center, then shape into a tight 4-inch (10 cm) ball using the wrap. Twist ends to secure and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  6. Coat the cheese ball: Unwrap chilled cheese ball and roll in reserved toasted pecans to form a crunchy outer layer. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs.
  7. Serve: Place on a serving plate and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies.

Notes

Toast pecans carefully to avoid burning; finely chop fresh rosemary to avoid bitterness; soften cream cheese well for smooth texture; chill cheese ball at least 1 hour for best flavor and firmness; bring to room temperature before serving for easier spreading.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, cranberry, pecan, rosemary, holiday appetizer, easy recipe, festive appetizer, quick appetizer

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/easy-cranberry-pecan-cheese-ball-recipe-with-fresh-rosemary-perfect-for-holidays/