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Festive cranberry orange cheese ball with whipped goat cheese and pecans on a serving platter.

Festive Cranberry Orange Cheese Ball

Victoria Sandra
Bright citrus, tart cranberries, and a crunchy candied pecan crust make this easy cheese ball the ultimate holiday centerpiece for your next gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling and Setting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 16 servings
Calories 155 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Zester
  • Plastic wrap

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup craisins
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest
  • 1 Tablespoon orange juice
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Coating

  • 1 cup chopped candied pecans
  • 1/2 cup craisins
  • 1 Tablespoon orange zest

Instructions
 

Whip the base until silky

  • Spoon the softened cream cheese into a large bowl and stir until it turns completely smooth, glossy, and creamy, ensuring no cold lumps remain.

Build the flavor

  • Add the craisins, orange zest, orange juice, and powdered sugar. Stir patiently until the dried cranberries are evenly scattered and the mixture is bright and fragrant.

Chill, shape, and soft set

  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 10 minutes until the fats tighten and the mixture becomes scoopable.
  • Roll the mixture into a ball, place it on a plate, and move it to the freezer for 10 minutes to soft set so it is firm enough to handle.

Coat and hold for serving

  • Spread the chopped candied pecans, craisins, and orange zest on a large plate. Roll the cheese ball through the mixture, pressing gently to ensure every inch is coated.
  • Wrap the ball snugly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving. Serve with crackers or gingersnaps.

Notes

Make-Ahead Strategy: You can prepare the cheese ball base up to 3 days in advance. For the crunchiest exterior, roll it in the pecan and cranberry coating on the day of serving.
Serving Tip: Let the chilled ball sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before guests arrive to ensure it is perfectly spreadable without breaking crackers.
Nut Variation: If you do not prefer pecans, walnuts or pistachios work beautifully. For a nut-free option, use crushed pretzels or toasted pumpkin seeds.
Flavor Balance: If you enjoy a sweet and spicy contrast, add a light drizzle of hot honey just before serving for a glossy, flavorful finish.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.

Nutrition

Calories: 155kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 2gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 95mgPotassium: 45mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 4IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword cranberry orange cheese ball, holiday appetizer, party snack
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