Print

Best Easy Cranberry Jalapeno Cheese Ball Recipe

cranberry jalapeño cheese ball - featured image
Print Recipe

This cozy cranberry jalapeño cheese ball with toasted pecans is the perfect appetizer for any gathering. It’s creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy, with a crunchy nut coating that makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh jalapeño, seeds removed and finely diced
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons dried cranberries, finely chopped (for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for coating)

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator at least 1 hour before starting. Cut it into cubes to speed up the process. You want it so soft that when you press it with your finger, it leaves an indent without resistance.
  2. Toast the pecans: While the cream cheese softens, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until they smell nutty and look slightly darker. Pour them onto a plate to cool completely. Once cool, chop them finely but not into dust—you want some texture.
  3. Prep the add-ins: Dice the jalapeño after removing the seeds and white ribs. Chop the dried cranberries into small pieces. If your cranberries are sticky, lightly oil your knife or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  4. Mix the cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, 1/2 cup chopped cranberries, 2 tablespoons diced jalapeño, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture looks fluffy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl at least once.
  5. Taste and adjust: Take a small spoonful and taste it. Need more salt? Add a pinch. Want more heat? Stir in another teaspoon of diced jalapeño. This is your cheese ball—make it exactly how you like it.
  6. Shape the cheese ball: Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Gather the edges of the wrap and twist at the top, using your hands to shape the mixture into a ball through the plastic. Aim for a round shape, but don’t stress about perfection—the coating will cover any imperfections.
  7. Chill for at least 2 hours: Place the wrapped cheese ball in the refrigerator. This step is non-negotiable. The cheese ball needs time to firm up so it holds its shape when you coat it.
  8. Prepare the coating: On a plate or in a shallow bowl, combine the chopped toasted pecans, 2 tablespoons chopped cranberries, and optional 1 teaspoon diced jalapeño. Mix with a fork to distribute evenly.
  9. Coat the cheese ball: Remove the chilled cheese ball from the plastic wrap. Gently roll it in the pecan mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres. Use your hands to pat extra coating onto any bare spots. Don’t be shy—get that coating all over.
  10. Chill again (optional but recommended): If you have time, wrap the coated cheese ball loosely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for another 30 minutes. This helps the coating set and makes slicing cleaner. If you’re serving immediately, that’s fine too.
  11. Serve: Place the cheese ball on a serving platter. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving so it softens slightly and becomes spreadable. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, apple slices, or celery sticks.

Notes

Let the cream cheese sit out for at least an hour before starting. Wear gloves while dicing jalapeño to avoid skin irritation. For a milder version, use only half a jalapeño. The cheese ball can be made up to 3 days in advance (without coating) and stored in the refrigerator. Add coating just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, cranberry jalapeno cheese ball, easy appetizer, holiday appetizer, cream cheese appetizer, spicy cheese ball

Find it online: https://cookluma.com/best-easy-cranberry-jalapeno-cheese-ball-recipe/