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Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Cheese Ball:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup gorgonzola or blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Coating:
- 1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (such as rosemary or thyme)
Instructions:
- Mix the Cheese Ball Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, blue cheese, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a hand mixer or a strong spoon to blend everything until it’s uniformly mixed.
- Shape the Mixture:
- Lay out a piece of plastic wrap and place the cheese mixture in the center. Wrap the plastic around the mixture and shape it into a ball. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. This makes it easier to handle and coat.
- Prepare the Coating:
- Combine the chopped dried cranberries and toasted pecans in a shallow dish. Mix them well.
- Coat the Cheese Ball:
- Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating evenly around it. Make sure the entire surface is covered.
- Chill Until Serving:
- Once fully coated, wrap the cheese ball back in plastic wrap and chill until you’re ready to serve. It can be made a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator.
- Serve:
- Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with crackers, slices of baguette, or vegetable sticks.
Conclusion:
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball combines creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors with a delightful crunch, making it a perfect starter for any festive occasion. Its visually striking appearance and delicious taste will surely be a hit at your next gathering!