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Easy Cheese Ball Snack

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This cheese ball combines softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar for a smooth, rich base. Garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper add mild seasoning. Toasted pecans and dried cranberries bring texture and subtle sweetness, while fresh parsley and chives add herbal brightness. The mixture is formed into a firm ball, then coated with a nutty, fruity seed and herb blend before chilling to set. Serve cold alongside crackers or veggies for an effortlessly flavorful treat that suits any gathering.

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A woman in a blue apron holding a plate of food.
Crafted By Sophie
Updated on Tue, 16 Dec 2025 20:36:44 GMT
A plate of food with a cheese ball and crackers. Save
A plate of food with a cheese ball and crackers. | myhomemademeal.com

This easy cheese ball snack has been a go-to for my gatherings because it comes together quickly and always gets devoured. Its creamy texture combined with crunchy and sweet coatings makes it a perfect party appetizer that everyone loves.

I first made this for a holiday potluck, and since then it has become a requested addition for every occasion

Ingredients

  • Cream cheese: Sixteen ounces full-fat, softened for easy mixing and creamy texture
  • Sharp white cheddar: One and a half cups, shredded for a bold and tangy bite
  • Garlic powder: Three quarters teaspoon to add a subtle savory depth
  • Fine sea salt: A quarter teaspoon to bring all flavors alive
  • Freshly ground black pepper: An eighth teaspoon for gentle heat
  • Toasted pecans: Half a cup, roughly chopped for crunch and nuttiness. Toast until golden brown for best flavor
  • Dried cranberries: Half a cup, roughly chopped to offer a sweet contrast and chewy texture
  • Parsley: One tablespoon, finely chopped for freshness and color
  • Chives: One tablespoon, finely chopped to add mild onion notes
  • Pumpkin seeds: Two tablespoons to enhance crunch and provide an earthy finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Smoothing the Base:
Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until perfectly smooth and creamy. This makes the texture light and easy to work with. Add shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and half the amounts of pecans, cranberries, parsley, and chives to the cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined.
Shaping the Ball:
Wet your hands lightly with water to avoid sticking. Scoop the cheese mixture and shape it firmly into a round ball shape. This step helps the cheese hold together and makes it easier to roll in the coating.
Preparing the Coating:
On a clean surface, mix the remaining pecans, cranberries, chives, and pumpkin seeds evenly so the cheese ball gets an even crunchy and colorful coating.
Rolling in Coating:
Roll the cheese ball gently in the coating mixture. Press lightly with your hands to make sure the toppings stick completely, creating a festive and tasty exterior.
Chilling to Set:
Wrap the coated cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes so it firms up nicely and the flavors meld together.
Serving:
Unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving plate. Surround with an assortment of crackers and garnish with rosemary sprigs for a beautiful presentation. Encourage guests to dig in and enjoy.
A cheese ball with a variety of toppings. Save
A cheese ball with a variety of toppings. | myhomemademeal.com

The cream cheese is my favorite ingredient because it creates the lush creamy base that carries all the other flavors. One year at Christmas a friend brought this cheese ball, and it was the star of the party. Everyone asked for the recipe because the balance of savory and sweet was spot on.

Storage Tips

Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic or place in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to four days without losing its freshness. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred. Dried cranberries can be swapped for chopped dried apricots or raisins for a different sweetness profile. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also replace parsley and chives for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a variety of crackers such as multigrain, water crackers, or rye. Fresh sliced veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots also pair beautifully. Garnish with seasonal herbs or edible flowers for an extra festive touch.

Recipe FAQs

→ What types of nuts work well for this cheese ball?

Toasted pecans provide a great crunch and flavor, but walnuts or almonds can be used as alternatives for different textures and tastes.

→ How can I make the cheese ball firmer?

Chilling the cheese ball for at least 30 minutes helps it firm up. For extra firmness, refrigerate it for a longer period before serving.

→ Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, the cheese ball can be mixed a day in advance and refrigerated. Shape and coat it just before serving for best presentation.

→ What can I serve with this cheese ball?

This cheese ball pairs well with assorted crackers, sliced vegetables, or fresh fruit for a balanced mix of flavors and textures.

→ Are there seasoning options to customize the flavor?

Adjust spices like garlic powder or add herbs such as dill or thyme to suit your personal taste preferences.

Easy Cheese Ball Snack

Creamy cheddar cheese ball with nuts and cranberries, perfect for entertaining or casual snacking.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
~
Overall Time
15 minutes
Crafted By: Sophie

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Preparation Complexity: Beginner-Friendly

Regional Cuisine: American

Servings Output: 10 Serving Size (10 servings)

Dietary Choices: Suitable for Vegetarians, Gluten-Free Alternative

Everything You’ll Need

→ Dairy

01 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
02 1.5 cups sharp white cheddar, shredded

→ Seasonings

03 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder
04 0.25 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 0.125 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Nuts & Fruits

06 0.5 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
07 0.5 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped

→ Herbs & Seeds

08 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
09 1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped
10 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds

Steps to Cook

Step 01

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add shredded cheddar, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and half of the pecans, cranberries, parsley, and chives. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 02

Moisten hands with water to prevent sticking, then gather the mixture and form it into a firm ball.

Step 03

On a clean surface, combine the remaining pecans, cranberries, chives, and pumpkin seeds evenly.

Step 04

Roll the formed ball over the coating mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even, complete coating.

Step 05

Wrap the coated ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes to firm up.

Step 06

Remove from refrigerator, unwrap, transfer to a serving platter, and garnish with rosemary sprigs. Serve with assorted crackers, vegetables, or fruits.

Extra Suggestions

  1. Can be prepared a day in advance for convenience. Nuts and dried fruits may be substituted according to preference.

Must-Have Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Plastic wrap

Allergy Information

Always check ingredient details for potential allergens. Consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy and tree nuts

Nutritional Highlights (per portion)

Nutritional information is shared for guidance and isn't meant to replace expert medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 120
  • Fat Breakdown: 10 grams
  • Carbohydrate Breakdown: 3 grams
  • Protein Count: 6 grams