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Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

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This Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is a creamy, tangy, and festive appetizer that pairs goat cheese and cream cheese with crunchy pecans and tart cranberries — perfect for holiday charcuterie boards or casual gatherings.

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

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix goat cheese, softened cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, salt, pepper, and herbs (if using) until smooth and well combined.
  2. Stir in a portion of the chopped dried cranberries for texture and sweetness.
  3. Use your hands (or plastic wrap) to shape the mixture into a ball.
  4. In a shallow dish, combine the remaining chopped cranberries and chopped pecans.
  5. Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry–pecan mixture until evenly coated.
  6. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

Notes

  • Add a bit of orange zest to the cheese mixture for a bright, festive touch.
  • Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds depending on preference or availability.
  • For a nut‑free version, omit nuts and use more cranberries or substitute with toasted pumpkin seeds.
  • Shape the mixture into a log instead of a ball if you prefer easier slicing.
  • Serve with crackers, baguette slices, fresh apple slices, or celery — very versatile.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/cranberry-pecan-goat-cheese-ball/