Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls
Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls are a delicious and easy appetizer that everyone will love. These tasty bites combine creamy goat cheese with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans. They’re perfect for parties, gatherings, or a simple snack at home.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls is a great way to impress your guests without spending too much time in the kitchen. This recipe is quick, easy, and requires no cooking. Plus, it combines a wonderful mix of flavors and textures that make it a hit at any occasion.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls
Ingredients:
- 8 oz goat cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, chopped cranberries, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are blended together.
- Form the mixture into small balls or logs.
- Roll the cheese balls in the chopped pecans to coat them evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy as an appetizer or snack!
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls
Serve Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy picking. They pair wonderfully with crackers, bread, or fresh fruit. You can also serve them alongside a spread of other cheeses for a beautiful cheese board.
How to Store Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls
Store any leftover Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week. If they lose some of their firmness, you can let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Tips to Make Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls
- For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese mixture.
- If you want a little spice, add some cayenne pepper to the mix.
- Feel free to substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer a different nut.
Variation
You can try using other dried fruits like apricots or figs instead of cranberries for a different taste. You can also use flavored goat cheese, such as herbed or garlic, to change up the flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls?
A: Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap. You can thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: What other nuts can I use for coating?
A: You can use any chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pistachios depending on your preference!
Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz goat cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 tbsp honey (optional) adds sweetness
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, chopped cranberries, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are blended together.
- Form the mixture into small balls or logs.
- Roll the cheese balls in the chopped pecans to coat them evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
