These Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls are festive mini cheese truffles loaded with creamy goat cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or as a sophisticated snack, these bite-sized treats offer a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive & Elegant – A perfect appetizer for holidays, parties, or special occasions.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
- Sweet & Savory – The combination of creamy goat cheese, honey, and crunchy pecans is irresistible.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance for effortless entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 ounces soft goat cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup honey, divided
- 1⅓ cups chopped pecans, divided
- ¼ cup minced fresh parsley
- ¾ cup dried cranberries, chopped
Directions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture – Using a hand or stand mixer, beat together the goat cheese, cream cheese, cinnamon, salt, and 2 tablespoons of honey until light and fluffy. Fold in ⅓ cup chopped pecans until well combined.
- Make the Coating – In a small bowl, mix the parsley, cranberries, and remaining pecans.
- Shape the Cheese Balls – Roll the goat cheese mixture into 1-inch balls. If the mixture is too soft, refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Coat the Cheese Balls – Roll each cheese ball in the cranberry-pecan mixture until evenly coated.
- Chill & Serve – Arrange the truffles on a flat non-stick surface and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 14 cheese balls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Twist – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
- Herby Flavor – Swap parsley for rosemary or thyme for an earthy taste.
- Nut-Free Option – Use crushed pretzels or sunflower seeds instead of pecans.
- Extra Sweetness – Drizzle additional honey over the top before serving.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing – Arrange the truffles on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thawing – Allow frozen truffles to thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Should I eat goat cheese truffles warm or cold?
These cheese truffles are best enjoyed cold, as they soften quickly at room temperature.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
Can I freeze goat cheese balls?
Absolutely! Freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What should I serve with these cheese balls?
They pair well with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables like cucumber slices.
Can I make mini cheese balls for individual servings?
Yes, making them smaller makes them perfect for party appetizers.
How do I keep them from sticking to my hands?
Lightly grease your hands with oil or chill the mixture before rolling.
Can I use flavored goat cheese?
Yes! Herb-infused or honey-flavored goat cheese works well.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives.
How long do they need to chill before serving?
At least 20 minutes in the fridge is recommended for the best texture.
Can I use other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Try chopped apricots, figs, or dates for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls are the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or party dish, they’re sure to impress. Easy to prepare and make-ahead friendly, this recipe is a must-try for your next gathering!
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Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 14 cheese balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls are festive, creamy, and packed with flavor! Featuring tangy goat cheese, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a hint of honey and cinnamon, these mini cheese truffles are perfect for holiday appetizers, party snacks, or elegant charcuterie boards.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz soft goat cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup honey, divided
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Coating:
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Make the Cheese Mixture:
- In a bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat together goat cheese, cream cheese, cinnamon, salt, and 2 tbsp honey until light and fluffy.
- Fold in ⅓ cup chopped pecans until well combined.
2. Make the Coating:
- In a separate small bowl, mix together cranberries, parsley, and remaining pecans.
3. Shape the Cheese Balls:
- Using clean hands, roll the cheese mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in the cranberry-pecan coating until fully covered.
4. Chill & Serve:
- Arrange the cheese truffles on a flat non-stick surface (like a cutting board).
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Best Served Cold: These cheese balls are best enjoyed chilled to maintain their shape and texture.
- Make Ahead & Freeze:
- Arrange fully assembled cheese balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for a few hours.
- Once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve with crackers, sliced apples, or toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- chill time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Holiday Recipes
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
