Looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s as delicious as it is easy to make? The Spinach Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that will have your guests raving! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful cheese ball that combines the richness of cream cheese and cheddar with the freshness of spinach and the crunch of pecans. Whether it's for a holiday gathering, a game day celebration, or a simple family get-together, this recipe is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more. Dive into this article to discover how to create this crowd-pleaser that’s not only tasty but visually stunning too!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped spinach, 1/4 cup of dried cranberries, 1/4 cup of chopped pecans, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the chopped spinach, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and garlic powder to the cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount, mix, and then adjust according to your preference.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to shape it into a ball. If the mixture is too sticky, you can wet your hands slightly or refrigerate the mixture for a few minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up and the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, you can roll the cheese ball in additional chopped pecans for extra texture and flavor. Place it on a serving platter.
- Serve the Spinach Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or sliced baguette for dipping. Enjoy!
Tips
- Ingredient Prep: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture for your cheese ball.
- Mixing Technique: If you have a hand mixer, use it to combine the cream cheese and cheddar for a fluffier texture. If you prefer a more rustic approach, a sturdy wooden spoon will work just fine!
- Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with the mix-ins! You can add chopped bell peppers for extra crunch, or swap out cranberries for dried cherries for a different flavor profile.
- Chill Time: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Chilling the cheese ball for at least 30 minutes helps it firm up and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your cheese ball with a variety of dippers like whole-grain crackers, sliced cucumbers, or even apple slices for a refreshing contrast to the creamy cheese.
- Presentation: For an extra touch, roll the cheese ball in additional chopped pecans right before serving. It adds a lovely crunch and makes for an eye-catching presentation!
- Make Ahead: This cheese ball can be made a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
