Name: Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American / Holiday
Ingredients: 8 oz goat cheese; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped, plus extra for coating; 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped (toast for more flavor); 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp minced fresh rosemary or thyme (optional); Pinch of salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is one of my favorite festive appetizers to serve during the holiday season. It’s creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and beautifully coated with crunchy pecans and tart dried cranberries. It looks impressive on a charcuterie board but takes only minutes to put together—perfect for entertaining or bringing to a party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The goat cheese adds tanginess, the cream cheese makes it smooth and spreadable, and the cranberries and pecans bring sweetness and crunch. It’s incredibly easy to make ahead, and I can serve it with crackers, sliced apples, or veggies. It’s festive, flavorful, and always gets compliments. Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Goat cheese
Cream cheese, softened
Dried cranberries, chopped
Pecans, finely chopped (toasted for extra flavor)
Honey or maple syrup
Fresh rosemary or thyme, minced (optional)
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

I start by mixing the goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and herbs (if I’m using them) in a bowl until smooth and well combined.
I stir in a small handful of chopped dried cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
I form the mixture into a ball using my hands or plastic wrap.
In a shallow dish, I combine the remaining chopped cranberries and pecans.
I roll the cheese ball in the cranberry–pecan mixture until it’s fully coated.
I chill the cheese ball in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 8 people as an appetizer. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to chill. Total time: approximately 40 minutes.

Variations

I add orange zest to the cheese mixture for a bright, festive twist.
I use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans depending on what I have.
For a savory boost, I mix in a bit of minced garlic or green onion.
I roll the cheese ball in half pistachios and half cranberries for extra color.
I shape it into a log instead of a ball if I want an easier-to-slice version.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving so it becomes easier to spread. No reheating is needed. Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day in advance. I keep it wrapped in plastic wrap and roll it in the cranberry–pecan coating just before serving for the freshest crunch.

Do I have to use cream cheese?

I like adding cream cheese because it helps bind the mixture and softens the tanginess of goat cheese, but I can use all goat cheese if I prefer a stronger flavor.

What do I serve this cheese ball with?

I serve it with crackers, baguette slices, pretzels, sliced apples, or celery sticks. It’s very versatile.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, I simply omit the pecans and use all cranberries, or replace the nuts with toasted pumpkin seeds.

How do I keep the cheese ball from sticking to my hands?

I lightly wet or oil my hands before shaping the cheese mixture, or I shape it inside plastic wrap for easier handling.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is a festive, flavorful, and effortless appetizer that brings holiday cheer to any gathering. I love how the creamy center pairs with the crunchy, sweet, and tangy coating. Whether I’m hosting or heading to a party, this is one dish I can always count on to impress.