Ingredients:
- 2 packages 8 oz each cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
For Serving:
- Crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies
Instructions:
- Mix the cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, parsley, green onions, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Shape the cheese ball: Scoop the cheese mixture out of the bowl and use your hands to form it into a ball. Place the ball onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Chop the pecans and cranberries: While the cheese ball chills, roughly chop the pecans and dried cranberries into small pieces.
- Coat the cheese ball: Once the cheese ball has chilled and firmed up, roll it in the chopped pecans and cranberries until fully coated. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks. If you’d like an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle honey over the top for a glossy finish.
- Plate and serve: Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and serve with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies like celery and carrots.
Enjoy Your Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball! This sweet and savory cheese ball is perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or as a delicious appetizer to share with friends and family. The crunchy pecans, tart cranberries, and creamy cheese come together in a festive and flavorful bite!
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