What began as a simple experiment is now our most-requested holiday appetizer. This cheese ball strikes the perfect balance: creamy, tangy cheese is elevated with sweet dried cranberries, savory herbs, and a whisper of brown sugar, all finished with a stunning, jewel-toned coating. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious, guaranteed to be the star of your spread.
Yields: 1 large cheese ball (serves 8-10)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour (or up to 5 days)
Ingredients
For the Cheese Ball:
16 oz (two 8 oz blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened
1 ¾ cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
2 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
⅓ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
⅓ cup pecans, finely chopped
For the Coating:
⅓ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
⅓ cup pecans, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
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