Creamy, tangy, and delightfully crunchy, these cheese bites are perfect for parties and gatherings.
Prep Time20 minutesmins
Total Time1 hourhr20 minutesmins
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, Party Food
Servings: 8servings
Calories: 150kcal
Equipment
Mixing Bowl
Spatula
Plastic Wrap
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
8ozCream Cheesesoftened to room temperature
1/2cupShredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1/4cupCrumbled Feta Cheese
Mix-ins
1/4cupDried Cranberrieschopped
1/4cupPecansfinely chopped
2tablespoonsGreen Onionschopped
1teaspoonGarlic Powder
1/2teaspoonOnion Powder
Seasoning
1/4teaspoonSaltadjust to taste
1/8teaspoonBlack Pepperadjust to taste
Coating
2-3tablespoonsChopped Pecansfor coating
2-3tablespoonsDried Cranberriesfor coating
Serving Suggestions
Crackers or Fresh Vegetablesfor serving
Instructions
Prepare ingredients: Chop the dried cranberries and finely chop the pecans. Shred the sharp cheddar if not pre-shredded and chop the green onions. Soften the cream cheese to room temperature for easy mixing.
Combine cheeses and mix-ins: In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, and crumbled feta. Add the chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Mix thoroughly: Use a spatula or a hand mixer on low to combine until ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth with visible nuggets of fruit and nut. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Shape the cheese ball: Using your hands, shape the cheese mixture into a ball. If the mixture is too sticky, wet your hands slightly or chill the mixture for 10 minutes to make shaping easier.
Prepare coating: On a plate, combine additional chopped pecans and additional dried cranberries for the outer coating. Press the surface of the cheese ball into the coating and roll until fully covered.
Chill: Wrap the coated cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and let the ball sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
Store leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.