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Easy Whipped Cranberry Cream Cheese Ball with Pecans

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This whipped cranberry cream cheese ball with pecans is a light and fluffy appetizer that combines sweet-tart cranberries, toasted pecans, and a hint of orange zest. It’s the perfect crowd-pleasing party dish that disappears first from the table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese (two 8-ounce blocks), softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped and toasted
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt
  • 1/2 cup additional chopped pecans, toasted and finely chopped (for coating)
  • Handful fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the powdered sugar, orange zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until well combined and smooth.
  3. Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and 1 cup of toasted pecans until evenly distributed.
  4. Transfer the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape into a ball, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
  5. Place the additional 1/2 cup toasted pecans on a plate. Roll the chilled cream cheese ball in the pecans to coat evenly.
  6. Garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs if desired. Serve with crackers, crostini, or apple slices.

Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for the best whipped texture. Toasting the pecans is essential for flavor and crunch. The cream cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for easier spreading.

Nutrition

Keywords: whipped cranberry cream cheese ball, cranberry pecan cheese ball, easy appetizer, holiday appetizer, party food

Find it online: https://dinadishes.com/easy-whipped-cranberry-cream-cheese-ball-with-pecans/