Description
This Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Creamy goat cheese is rolled in a mix of finely chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs, creating a delightful combination of tart, nutty, and aromatic flavors. Serve it chilled with your favorite crackers for an elegant and crowd-pleasing starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Ball
- 16 oz goat cheese (two 8 oz logs), softened to room temperature
- ⅓ cup pecans, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cracked black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- ½ tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
Serving
- Crackers for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberry and pecan mixture: Finely chop the dried cranberries and pecans. In a medium bowl, combine them with the chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the flavorful coating mixture.
- Form the cheese ball: Take the softened goat cheese and shape it into a firm ball by hand. If desired, you can blend the goat cheese with cream cheese for a milder flavor and softer texture before shaping.
- Coat the cheese ball: Roll the formed goat cheese ball in the cranberry and pecan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it is completely and evenly coated with the herb and nut mixture.
- Chill and serve: You can serve the cheese ball immediately or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Serve chilled with an assortment of crackers for spreading or dipping.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, blend the goat cheese with 2-4 oz of cream cheese before shaping the ball.
- Fresh herbs add brightness, but dried thyme and rosemary can be substituted if fresh is unavailable—use about half the amount.
- The cheese ball can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld.
- Best served chilled but allow to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for easier spreading.
- Try adding a drizzle of honey on top for a sweet contrast.
