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+ servings
Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Tree

Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Tree

This festive Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Tree is a delightful appetizer that impresses guests with its creamy flavor and beautiful presentation.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizers & Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Mixture
  • 16 oz Cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup Crumbled blue cheese
For the Mix-ins
  • 1/2 cup Chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup Dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For Decoration
  • handful Additional chopped pecans
  • handful Additional dried cranberries
  • Fresh parsley for garnishing

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • electric mixer
  • plastic wrap
  • Serving dish

Method
 

How to Make Christmas Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball Tree
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled blue cheese. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon to beat them together until smooth and well-combined.
  2. Toss in the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix these until they’re evenly distributed throughout the cheese mix—give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary!
  3. Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on your clean workspace. Spoon the cheese mixture into the center and form it into a mound.
  4. With your hands over the plastic wrap, gently mold the cheese mixture into a cone or tree form, pressing firmly to compact it into shape.
  5. Wrap your cheese tree tightly in the plastic wrap for a solid hour or two in the refrigerator, allowing it to set until it's firm to the touch.
  6. After chilling, carefully unwrap the cheese tree and place it on a serving dish. Press additional chopped pecans and cranberries into the surface for a rustic and festive texture.
  7. For a charming flair, tuck fresh parsley sprigs around the base and atop the cheese tree to mimic greenery.
  8. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. Pair this festive centerpiece with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or colorful veggie sticks.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 6gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optional: Drizzle with a little honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth texture.

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