Description
This festive Cranberry Cheeseball is a delightful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Creamy cream cheese and sharp white cheddar blend seamlessly with tart dried cranberries, fresh chives, and a hint of garlic powder. Coated in a crunchy mixture of walnuts and cranberries, this cheeseball offers a beautiful presentation and a perfect balance of flavors. Serve chilled with your favorite vegetables and crackers for an irresistible party treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup chopped dried cranberries, divided
- 4 tablespoons finely chopped chives, divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped, divided
Instructions
- Mix the Base: Place the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of the chopped dried cranberries, 2 tablespoons of the finely chopped chives, garlic powder, and ¼ cup of the chopped walnuts into a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined into a smooth, even mixture.
- Form the Cheeseball: Scrape the cheese mixture from the bowl and shape it into a compact ball with your hands, ensuring it holds together firmly.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining ¾ cup chopped dried cranberries, remaining 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives, and remaining ¾ cup chopped walnuts. Toss these together evenly to create the cheeseball coating.
- Coat the Cheeseball: Roll the cheese ball in the walnut, cranberry, and chive mixture until it is completely covered on all sides, forming a decorative and flavorful crust.
- Chill the Cheeseball: Wrap the coated cheeseball tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove the cheeseball from the refrigerator just before serving. Present it on a serving plate accompanied by fresh vegetables and crackers for guests to enjoy.
Notes
- The cheeseball can be made up to 24 hours in advance to allow flavors to develop even more.
- For a nut-free option, substitute walnuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or omit entirely and use additional dried cranberries.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Try adding a splash of orange zest or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for an extra flavor twist.
