Description
A festive and delicious cheese ball made with creamy cheeses, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional chopped pecans and cranberries for decoration
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled blue cheese. Beat or stir until smooth and evenly incorporated.
- Add the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on your work surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and mold it into a mound.
- Use your hands (over the plastic wrap) to shape the cheese into a cone or tree shape, pressing firmly to compact it.
- Wrap the shaped cheese tree tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Once chilled, unwrap and place on a plate. Press additional chopped pecans and cranberries over the outside for a decorative coating.
- Transfer to your serving platter and tuck fresh parsley around the base and top for garnish.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh cut vegetables.
Notes
Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing. You can adjust spices or try different nuts for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American