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
Scale
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
