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Lighter Cranberry Cheese Ball with Easy Toasted Pecans

lighter cranberry cheese ball - featured image
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A lighter twist on the classic cheese ball, made with Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or any celebration.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt, full-fat or 2%
  • ½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced (about 3–4 stalks, white and light green parts only)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¾ cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Toast the pecans: Place the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and slightly darker. Pour onto a plate to cool completely.
  2. Soften the cream cheese: Take cream cheese out of the fridge at least 45 minutes before starting. It should be soft enough that your finger leaves an indent when pressed.
  3. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down sides of bowl.
  4. Add the flavorings: Add chopped dried cranberries, sliced green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix on low speed just until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Shape the cheese ball: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center. Gather edges of plastic wrap and twist to form a tight ball. Use hands through plastic to shape into a smooth round ball.
  6. Chill: Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight.
  7. Coat the ball: Once firm, combine cooled toasted pecans and parsley (if using) on a large plate. Unwrap cheese ball and roll in pecan mixture, pressing gently so nuts stick. Pat any bare spots.
  8. Serve or store: Place coated cheese ball on a serving board. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

Toast your own nuts for best flavor. Chop cranberries and pecans uniformly (about ¼-inch pieces). Let cheese ball rest at room temperature 15-20 minutes before serving. Can be made up to 5 days ahead; coat with pecans on serving day. Freeze uncoated cheese ball for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, cranberry, pecan, Greek yogurt, lighter, appetizer, holiday, party

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