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–+ servings
Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Balls

Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Balls: Holiday Delight in Every Bite

Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Balls are the ultimate holiday appetizer that combines creamy, rich cheeses with cranberries and nuts.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 10 balls
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Mixture
  • 1 package Good Quality Cream Cheese Provides a rich, creamy base; low-fat options can lighten it up.
  • 1 cup White Cheddar Cheese, grated Adds sharpness and depth; feel free to swap with your favorite cheese.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances the flavor profile; fresh minced garlic offers a more robust taste.
  • pinch Sea Salt Balances and elevates the flavor; adjust according to your personal preference.
For the Mix-ins
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries, chopped Imparts sweetness and a delightful chew; dried cherries or apricots can work beautifully here.
  • 1 cup Roasted Pecans or Walnuts, chopped Provides a satisfying crunch and richness; almonds or sunflower seeds are great gluten-free alternatives.
  • 1/4 cup Chives, thinly sliced Introduces a mild onion flavor; scallions can be used as a substitute.
For Coating
  • 1 cup Additional Chopped Cranberries, Nuts, and Chives Roll the cheese ball in these for a colorful and textured finish.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • hand mixer
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Nut Cream Cheese Balls
  1. Step 1: Prep Ingredients - Measure and prepare all your ingredients. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature, and chop the dried cranberries, nuts, and chives.
  2. Step 2: Mix Cheese Base - Blend the softened cream cheese and grated white cheddar until smooth. Add garlic powder, sea salt, cranberries, nuts, and chives, mixing until combined.
  3. Step 3: Form Cheese Ball - Dust your hands with chopped nuts, shape the mixture into a ball. Refrigerate if too soft.
  4. Step 4: Coat Cheese Ball - Roll the cheese ball in the additional chopped cranberries, nuts, and sliced chives until evenly coated.
  5. Step 5: Serve or Store - Serve immediately with crackers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Make sure to use room temperature cream cheese for the best results. You can prepare these cheese balls in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

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