Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball

Name: Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Craisins; 1/4 cup pecans, chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals

Create a deliciously unique appetizer that combines the creaminess of white cheddar cheese with the sweet and tangy burst of Craisins. This cheese ball is perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights in. Serve it with an array of crackers or fresh fruit for a delightful experience that's sure to impress your guests.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-27T06:08:22.546Z

This Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The creamy texture of the cheese combined with the tartness of Craisins offers a surprising and delightful twist on a classic appetizer.

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

When it comes to appetizers, finding the right balance of flavors is key to keeping your guests engaged. This Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball offers an exquisite combination of savory cheese and sweet cranberries, creating a delightful taste sensation. The creaminess of the cream cheese and white cheddar melds beautifully with the chewy texture of Craisins, making this dish a standout choice at any gathering.

This recipe allows you to enjoy the richness of cheese while also indulging in the subtle sweetness of dried cranberries. The addition of pecans provides a satisfying crunch that complements the overall creaminess of the cheese ball. As your guests take their first bite, they’ll be enchanted by the contrasting flavors, making it the talk of the party.

Easy to Make, Fun to Share

One of the best aspects of this Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious appetizer in no time. It’s perfect for those who may not be seasoned chefs but still want to impress their friends and family with delightful flavors.

The cheese ball can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your gathering instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Simply pop it in the fridge to firm up, and you’ll have an elegant and appetizing centerpiece ready to serve when your guests arrive.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To elevate this cheese ball even further, consider serving it with a variety of accompaniments. Crackers, fresh fruit, and even vegetable sticks make excellent choices for dipping. A selection of different textures and flavors will enhance your guests' tasting experience, encouraging them to try different combinations with the cheese ball.

For those looking to pair beverages, consider serving your cheese ball with a light white wine or a refreshing sparkling water. The citrus notes in these drinks can help balance the richness of the cheese, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Craisins
1/4 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt to taste

Serve alongside an assortment of crackers or fresh fruit.

Instructions

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar cheese, Craisins, chopped pecans, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Form the Cheese Ball

Gather the mixture and shape it into a ball. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Serve

Once the cheese ball has set, remove it from the fridge. Unwrap and place it on a serving platter. Add additional Craisins and chopped pecans on the outside for garnish if desired.

Enjoy with crackers or fresh fruit!

Storing and Reusing Leftovers

If you have leftovers after your gathering, storing the Craisins White Cheddar Cheese Ball is quite simple. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will maintain its flavor and texture for several days, making it perfect for enjoying at home during the week or even for impromptu snacking.

Leftover cheese ball can also serve as a resourceful addition to other dishes. You can crumble it over salads for an extra touch of flavor, or use it as a creamy spread in sandwiches. The versatility of this cheese ball makes it an excellent addition to your meal planning.

Customizing Your Cheese Ball

Feel free to add your unique spin to this recipe by incorporating additional ingredients. For example, diced bell peppers or green onions can add a fresh bite, while spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can bring a hint of heat. This flexibility allows you to tailor the cheese ball to suit your personal preferences or to match the theme of your gathering.

You can also experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits to create your signature flavor profile. Almonds or walnuts can replace the pecans, and you might try using dried apricots or cherries instead of Craisins for a different taste adventure. The possibilities are endless!

Feedback and Variations

As you share this cheese ball with friends and family, be open to their feedback. They might suggest tweaks and additions that could encourage you to perfect this appetizer even further. Keeping track of their suggestions can lead to exciting new variations you may not have considered before.

Additionally, if you're hosting a large gathering, consider making several cheese balls with different flavors or toppings. This way, your guests can enjoy a variety of tastes, ensuring that there's something for everyone and making your event even more memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?

It pairs well with a variety of crackers, fresh fruits, or even vegetables for dipping.