Why Make This Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball
Transform your gatherings with this delightful Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball. It’s not just a dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a burst of flavor and color to your table. The creamy, tangy goat cheese blends beautifully with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans, creating a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Perfect as an appetizer or a party snack, this cheese ball is easy to make and incredibly rewarding. It’s a wonderful option for holiday celebrations, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy night in.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball
Creating this scrumptious cheese ball is a breeze. All you need is a mixing bowl and a few minutes of your time. The combination of softened goat cheese, sharp green onions, and aromatic seasonings brings out a delightful flavor profile. As you roll the cheese ball in toasted pecans, you’ll witness how it transforms into a stunning centerpiece. Let it chill for an hour, and you’re ready to impress your guests!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz goat cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, chopped cranberries, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans until well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve with crackers or sliced baguette.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (approximately 2 tablespoons) of the Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball contains:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 130mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 3g
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball
Serving this cheese ball is as easy as pie! Pair it with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful platter. For added flair, you can drizzle a little more honey on top or arrange it alongside a variety of cheeses and fruits. This dish shines at parties, making it a fantastic option for holiday dinners or game day celebrations.
How to Store Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to make it ahead of time for a special occasion, you can prepare it a day or two in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered tightly to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball
- Make sure to let your goat cheese soften at room temperature before mixing; it’ll make the blending process much easier.
- If you’re short on time, you can substitute the dried cranberries with other dried fruits like apricots or figs.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Roasting the pecans lightens their flavor and enhances their crunch—consider doing this for a richer taste!
Delicious Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Herbed Goat Cheese Ball: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cheese mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: Mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy variant.
- Mediterranean Style: Substitute sundried tomatoes and olives for cranberries and pecans to create a Mediterranean flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use cream cheese instead of goat cheese? Yes, you can substitute cream cheese if you prefer a milder taste. Just be sure to adjust the other ingredients since cream cheese is less tangy than goat cheese.
- How can I make this dairy-free? To make a dairy-free version, try using a nut-based cream cheese alternative. Look for options made from cashews or almonds, which can provide a nice creamy texture.
- What can I serve with this cheese ball? You can serve it with an array of items like whole grain crackers, breadsticks, sliced veggies such as celery and carrots, or even apple slices for a sweet complement.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball is not just a delight for the taste buds but also an appealing addition to any snack table. Its delicious blend of flavors and textures makes it a must-try for your next gathering. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip this up in no time. So go ahead, give this recipe a shot, and don’t forget to share your creation with family and friends! They’re sure to love it as much as you do!
Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Ball
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, chopped cranberries, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans until well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve with crackers or sliced baguette.