Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is a delightful appetizer perfect for any gathering. This creamy cheese ball combines tangy goat cheese with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans. Its festive flavors make it an excellent choice for holiday parties, game days, or casual get-togethers. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appeal: The vibrant colors of cranberries and pecans create a beautiful presentation that adds charm to any table.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this tasty treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with crackers, veggies, or even as part of a cheese board for versatile enjoyment.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This cheese ball is always a hit at parties, making it a reliable choice for gatherings.
• Customizable Recipe: Easily adjust the herbs or add other ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help you mix, shape, and serve your delicious appetizer.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Plate for serving
• Plastic wrap (if making ahead)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to combine all ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for finely chopping pecans and cranberries to ensure even distribution in your cheese ball.
• Plate for serving: Presenting your cheese ball on a nice plate enhances its visual appeal and makes serving easier.

Ingredients

This delicious, festive cheese ball is a family favorite. Make mini goat cheese balls or a large one for sharing!

For the Cheese Ball

• 16 oz goat cheese (two 8 oz logs of goat chèvre)
• ⅓ cup pecans, finely chopped
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cracked pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• ½ tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (see notes if making the mini goat cheese balls!)
• Crackers for serving

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

Step 1: Prepare the Mix

1. Finely dice the dried cranberries and pecans into small bits.
2. Add them to a plate along with the chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix everything well until evenly combined.

Step 2: Form the Cheese Ball

1. Work the room temperature goat cheese into a cohesive ball.
2. If using cream cheese in addition to goat cheese, combine 8 oz of each in a bowl and mix thoroughly.
3. Refer to recipe notes if you’re preparing mini versions!

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Ball

1. Roll the formed cheese ball into the mixture of chopped pecans and cranberries.
2. Gently press the ball into the mix while turning it to coat evenly.
3. Continue pressing until almost all toppings are firmly adhered to the surface.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Place the finished cheese ball on a serving plate alongside veggies or crackers.
2. If making ahead of time, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

With these simple steps, your Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball will be ready to impress your guests!

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

Serving a Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is an easy way to impress your guests at any gathering. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance the experience.

With Crackers

• Choose a variety of crackers for different textures and flavors. Consider using water crackers, whole grain, or herb-flavored options.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Create a beautiful charcuterie board with meats, cheeses, and fruits. The cheese ball adds color and richness, making it visually appealing.

Accompanied by Fresh Veggies

• Pair the cheese ball with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. This adds crunch and a healthy touch to your appetizer spread.

Spread on Toast Points

• Serve the cheese ball on toasted baguette slices or crostini. This makes for an elegant serving option that guests will love.

With a Fruit Chutney

• Drizzle some fruit chutney over the cheese ball for added sweetness. It complements the tartness of cranberries perfectly.

As Part of a Holiday Platter

• Include the cheese ball in a festive holiday platter featuring various appetizers. It’s perfect for Christmas or New Year gatherings.

How to Perfect Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

Making a Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball can be simple if you follow these tips. Here are some great ways to ensure your cheese ball turns out perfectly.

• Use room temperature cheese: This makes it easier to mix and shape the cheese ball without cracking.
• Finely chop toppings: Ensure that pecans and cranberries are chopped into small pieces for better adhesion and flavor distribution.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least an hour after shaping it. This helps it hold its shape when served.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like basil or chives for different flavor profiles.
• Add a drizzle of honey: A touch of honey on top before serving can enhance sweetness and create an appealing presentation.
• Make mini versions: For parties, consider shaping mini goat cheese balls for individual servings that are easy to grab.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball can elevate your appetizer game. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cheese Platter – A selection of different cheeses complements the creamy goat cheese beautifully.
2. Mixed Olives – The briny flavor of olives balances the sweetness of the cranberries in the cheese ball.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – These savory bites add another layer of flavor and texture to your spread.
4. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide freshness alongside the rich cheese ball.
5. Mini Quiches – These bite-sized delights offer a savory contrast against the sweet notes of the cranberry.
6. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich appetizers.
7. Spiced Nuts – A mix of spiced nuts adds crunch and depth while pairing well with both sweet and savory elements.
8. Deviled Eggs – Classic deviled eggs are always a hit at gatherings and complement many appetizers wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold cheese: Cold goat cheese can be hard to work with. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing.
• Not chopping ingredients finely: Large pieces of cranberries or nuts can prevent the coating from adhering properly. Ensure everything is finely chopped for even coverage.
• Skipping seasoning: Forgetting salt and pepper can dull the flavor. Always season your cheese mixture well to enhance the taste.
• Rolling too quickly: Rushing the rolling process can lead to an uneven coating. Take your time and press firmly as you roll to ensure a good covering.
• Not using enough herbs: Herbs add freshness and balance. Don’t skimp; use the recommended amounts or adjust according to your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Wrap the Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball tightly in plastic wrap.
• item Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

• item Freeze the cheese ball wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container.
• item It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for short bursts of 15-20 seconds, checking often to avoid melting too much.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries about making a Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball.

What is a Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball?

A Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is a festive appetizer made from goat cheese mixed with dried cranberries, pecans, and herbs, rolled into a ball shape.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare your Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with my cheese ball?

You can serve your Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball with crackers, sliced vegetables, or fresh fruits. These pair wonderfully with its creamy texture.

How long does it last in the fridge?

The Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 5 days when properly stored.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is not only delicious but also versatile for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding different herbs or spices based on your preference. Whether served at festive gatherings or casual get-togethers, this cheese ball is sure to be a hit!

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Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is a show-stopping appetizer that will elevate any gathering. This creamy, tangy cheese ball blends the rich flavors of goat cheese with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of chopped pecans. Perfect for holiday parties, game days, or casual get-togethers, it is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time. In just 20 minutes, you can create a stunning dish that delights your guests and allows you to enjoy more time with friends and family. Serve it with an array of crackers, fresh veggies, or as part of a festive cheese board for maximum enjoyment.

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Ingredients

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• 16 oz goat cheese (two 8 oz logs)
• ⅓ cup pecans, finely chopped
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cracked pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• ½ tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Crackers for serving

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Instructions

1. Finely chop cranberries and pecans; mix them with herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Soften goat cheese and form it into a ball.
3. Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture until evenly coated.
4. Serve on a plate with crackers or veggies.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: N/A
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 97
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 12mg