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Perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe: Easy Appetizer

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This Perfect Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with Everything Bagel Crust is a quick and easy appetizer that combines sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and savory everything bagel seasoning for a crowd-pleasing dish that looks impressive with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup dried cranberries, divided
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped, divided
  • 1/2 cup everything bagel seasoning
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (about 3–4 stalks)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Pinch of salt (optional, depending on seasoning saltiness)

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator at least one hour before starting. Cut it into cubes to speed up the process. It should be soft enough that pressing your finger leaves an indentation without resistance.
  2. Toast the pecans (optional but recommended): Place the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and slightly darker. Spread on a plate to cool completely.
  3. Mix the cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup dried cranberries (reserve the rest), 2/3 cup chopped pecans (reserve the rest), chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed until well combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl at least once.
  4. Taste and adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. Remember that the everything bagel crust will add more salt and savory flavor.
  5. Shape the cheese ball: Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Scrape the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Gather the edges and shape into a ball using the plastic wrap. Twist the top to seal tightly.
  6. Chill the cheese ball: Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow flavors to meld and firm up.
  7. Prepare the everything bagel crust: On a large plate, combine the everything bagel seasoning with the reserved chopped pecans and reserved dried cranberries. Mix evenly.
  8. Coat the cheese ball: Remove the chilled cheese ball from the refrigerator. Unwrap and place it directly onto the plate with the crust mixture. Use your hands to gently press the mixture onto all sides, covering every surface.
  9. Final chill (optional but helpful): If time allows, wrap the coated cheese ball loosely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to help the crust adhere.
  10. Serve and enjoy: Place the cheese ball on a serving board. Arrange crackers, sliced baguette, apple slices, or other accompaniments around it. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving so it softens slightly.

Notes

Let cream cheese soften properly to avoid lumps. Chop cranberries and pecans finely for even texture. Make ahead up to 3 days without crust; add crust up to 2 hours before serving. For a crowd, double the recipe and make two smaller cheese balls. Watch salt level of everything bagel seasoning.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, cranberry pecan cheese ball, everything bagel cheese ball, easy appetizer, holiday appetizer, party appetizer

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