Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your appetizers with this delightful Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip, a perfect blend of creamy cheese, zesty cranberries, and crunchy nuts. This easy-to-make dip is ideal for holiday gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying with family. Serve it with crackers or fresh veggies for a deliciously festive treat that will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-24T03:40:31.058Z

This Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip brings together the flavors of the season in a creamy, tangy spread that pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers.

A Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip is not only a fun addition to your snack table, but it also brings a festive touch to any holiday gathering. The vibrant red of the cranberries combined with the creamy cheese creates an appealing visual contrast that is sure to catch the eye of your guests. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a satisfying dip that pairs well with a variety of dippers.

This dip is extremely versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes. Whether you prefer a smoky flavor, a hint of spice, or a touch of sweetness, you can easily modify the recipe to include your favorite combinations. It’s a dish that encourages creativity while still delivering a crowd-pleasing result.

Easy to Prepare

One of the best features of the Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful appetizer in no time. The prep time is minimal, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday schedules or unexpected guests. Just combine the ingredients, shape them into a ball, let it chill, and you're ready to impress!

Moreover, this recipe can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time in the kitchen. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your party is a success. Prepare the dip the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and simply serve it when you're ready.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to serving Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip, the possibilities are endless. Traditional pairings include a variety of crackers and fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips. You can also experiment with different bread options such as sliced baguette or toasted pita chips for a delightful crunch.

To elevate your serving experience, consider placing the cheese ball in the center of a charcuterie board. Surround it with a mix of cheese, meats, and fruits to create a stunning appetizer spread. Not only does it taste wonderful, but it also adds a delightful visual appeal that will be sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Ball Dip

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients well for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Cheese Ball

Transfer the cheese mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape it into a ball and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Serve

Once chilled, unwrap the cheese ball and serve it with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!

Enjoy your festive dish!

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a perfect option for leftovers. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its freshness. If you’d like to serve it again, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly, making it easier to dip.

You can also consider freezing the cheese ball for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it properly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again. This makes it a convenient choice for meal prep and holiday planning.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip delicious, but it also has some nutritional benefits. The cranberries used in the recipe are packed with antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall health. They are known to support heart health and may help to reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Additionally, the pecans in the dip provide healthy fats and proteins, making this dip a more balanced option compared to traditional snacks. While it’s always best to enjoy treats in moderation, this dip offers a delightful way to indulge while still being mindful of nutrition.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

Crackers, fresh veggies, or even sliced baguette work great with this dip.

Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip

Elevate your appetizers with this delightful Cranberry Cheese Ball Dip, a perfect blend of creamy cheese, zesty cranberries, and crunchy nuts. This easy-to-make dip is ideal for holiday gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying with family. Serve it with crackers or fresh veggies for a deliciously festive treat that will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 6-8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cheese Ball Dip

  1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  3. 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  4. 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  5. 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  6. 1 tsp garlic powder
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 02

Transfer the cheese mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape it into a ball and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 03

Once chilled, unwrap the cheese ball and serve it with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g