Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with Garlic & Chives

If classic cranberry pecan cheese balls are delicious, adding garlic and chives takes them to a new level of savory, aromatic appeal. This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with Garlic & Chives balances sweet, tangy, creamy, and herbaceous notes in every bite. At your next holiday party—whether Christmas, Thanksgiving, or a cozy winter gathering—this appetizer will draw guests in and disappear quickly.

It’s no-bake, transport-friendly, and flexible enough to adapt to your tastes or dietary preferences. Below, you’ll find a full recipe, tips for success, presentation ideas, variations, and answers to common questions.

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Why This Flavor Combination Works

• Garlic & chives bring a punch of savory freshness

• Cranberries add sweet-tart contrast

• Pecans deliver crunchy, nutty texture

• Cream cheese + cheddar smooth the blend and bind ingredients

• Herbal notes elevate the dish beyond standard flavor profiles

This version is for those who love complexity and want their holiday appetizers to be both festive and flavorful.

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Ingredients (Yields ~10–12 Servings)

For coating / garnish:

• Extra chopped pecans

• Extra chopped cranberries

• Chopped fresh chives or herb sprigs for garnish

Serving suggestions / dippers:

• Crackers (plain, multigrain, gluten-free)

• Crostini or toasted baguette slices

• Apple or pear slices

• Raw vegetables (celery, cucumber, bell pepper)

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Instructions — Step by Step

1. Soften the Cream Cheese

Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature about 30 minutes until it becomes soft and workable.

2. Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pecans for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Cool before chopping.

3. Blend the Cheese Base

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar. Stir or mix on low until smooth and fully incorporated.

4. Add Garlic & Chives

Stir in the minced fresh garlic and half the chopped chives (reserve some for garnish). This step ensures that the herb and garlic flavor infuses throughout the mixture.

5. Fold in Cranberries, Pecans & Seasonings

Gently fold in the dried cranberries, toasted pecans, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly distributed.

6. Chill & Shape

Place a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment on your work surface. Spoon the mixture into it and use the wrap to help form a tight ball (or log). Wrap it securely and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for fuller flavor.

7. Garnish & Coat

Unwrap the chilled cheese ball. In a shallow plate, mix extra pecans, cranberries, and reserved chives. Roll the cheese ball in that coating, pressing gently so it adheres evenly.

8. Serve & Present

Transfer the coated cheese ball to a serving board or platter. Garnish with fresh chives or herb sprigs. Surround it with dippers — crackers, fruits, vegetables. Let the ball sit ~10 minutes before serving so it softens slightly for easy spreading.

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Presentation & Styling Tips

• Use a wood, slate, or marble board to highlight the creamy and nutty colors

• Fan crackers or crostini around the cheese ball in a half-moon or radial pattern

• Tuck in apple or pear slices, celery, or cucumber for color and contrast

• Garnish with extra chives, rosemary sprigs, or microgreens

• Scatter leftover pecans and cranberries for continuity

• Use small bowls for olives, nuts, or jam placed among the dippers

• For height, place the cheese ball on a small riser or pedestal

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Variations & Customization Ideas

• Cheese swap: Replace some cheddar with goat cheese or pepper jack

• Nut alternative: Use walnuts or a nut mix

• Fruit alternative: Dried cherries or apricots can add a different note

• Herb changes: Try thyme, basil, or parsley if you dislike chives

• Spice accent: Add paprika, cayenne, or smoked salt to deepen flavor

• Mini version: Use small scoops or melon baller to form bite-size versions

• Log shape: Instead of a ball, form a log for clean slices

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Make-Ahead & Storage Advice

• You can assemble and chill the cheese ball up to 1–2 days in advance

• Add final coating just before serving to preserve crispness

• Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for 4–5 days

• Freezing is not recommended — the texture of cream cheese may change

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Nutritional Estimate (Approximate per Serving)

Assuming ~12 servings:

• Calories: ~200–220

• Fat: ~17 g

• Protein: ~5–6 g

• Carbohydrates: ~5–7 g

• Fiber: ~1 g

• Sugar: ~2–3 g

These values may vary depending on ingredient choices and serving sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will the garlic be too strong?
The fresh garlic gives a pleasant savory note, but with the other flavors, it doesn’t dominate. Use fewer cloves if you prefer a milder profile.

Is the recipe gluten-free?
Yes — the core ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just serve with gluten-free crackers or dippers if needed.

Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based cream cheese and vegan cheese alternatives. Ensure the rest of the ingredients (nuts, dried fruit) are compatible.

Ball or log shape?
Both work well. A sphere looks classic; a log is easier to slice. Choose based on your serving style.

How far ahead can I prepare it?
You can mix and chill it 1–2 days beforehand. Add coating before serving for best texture.

What if it’s too soft to shape?
Chill longer to let it firm up. You can also include more shredded cheese or chopped nuts to add body.

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Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball with Garlic & Chives offers the best of sweet and savory worlds in one party-ready, no-bake dish. With herbaceous brightness, nutty crunch, and festive flavor, it elevates any holiday spread. Make it ahead, style it beautifully, and watch as it becomes one of the most talked-about appetizers at your gathering.

Enjoy the flavors, the elegance, and the ease of serving something truly special.