If you’re looking for a unique, flavorful addition to your appetizer spread, the Cranberry Pecan Cheese Truffles may just be the ideal choice. These truffles effortlessly combine sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements to create a taste profile that’s both sophisticated and comforting. The vivid mix of goat cheese and cream cheese offers a rich, velvety base. Infused with the sweet warmth of honey and cinnamon, and enveloped in a coating of crunchy pecans, tart cranberries, and fresh parsley, these truffles present a delightful explosion of flavors with every bite.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and no-bake convenience. Perfect for the holidays, these cheese truffles can easily grace your table alongside other festive dishes without demanding too much of your time. Even on a casual day, these truffles can transform a regular snack into something extraordinary. The contrast of textures—from the creamiest of cheeses to the nutty crunch, along with the hint of tartness from cranberries—makes it a sophisticated appetizer that stands out.
Another plus is their aesthetic appeal. Flecks of red from the cranberries and green from the parsley scattered across the truffles create a visual feast that’s as enticing to look at as it is to eat. Easy to make and delightful to taste, Cranberry Pecan Cheese Truffles are sure to become a staple for any occasion, especially when you’re aiming to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Truffles
- Beautifully Balanced Flavors: The harmony between creamy cheeses, sweet honey, and cinnamon, coupled with tangy cranberries and nutty pecans, offers an exquisite flavor profile.
- No-Bake Convenience: Skip the oven and save time with these effortlessly simple no-bake treats.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a chic gathering, these truffles are sure to steal the show.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the recipe, make sure your kitchen is prepped. First, gather and measure all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking experience. For this no-bake goodness, your only tools are a few bowls, a mixer, parchment paper, and an airtight container. It’s as simple as it sounds.
Let’s start with the essentials. You’ll need a mixing bowl for combining the goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and cinnamon. It’s crucial to beat these ingredients until fluffy for optimal texture. A medium-sized spoon or melon baller will help in forming uniformly sized truffles. For rolling, parchment paper is your best friend—it simplifies cleanup and keeps your workspace neat.
Ingredients
- 10 oz goat cheese, softened
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ cups finely diced pecans (divided)
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, finely minced
Instructions
Step 1: Create the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and cinnamon. Beat these ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy, ideally with an electric mixer. This not only blends the flavors but also aerates the mixture, giving it a light texture.
Step 2: Incorporate Pecans
Carefully fold in ½ cup of the diced pecans into the cheese mixture. This adds a delightful crunch and depth to each bite. Be gentle to maintain the airy consistency of the cheese mix.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
Lay a sheet of parchment paper on a flat surface. Evenly spread the remaining pecans, chopped cranberries, and minced parsley. This forms the coating that will stick to your cheese truffles, creating a visually appealing and tasty outer layer.
Step 4: Roll the Truffles
Using a spoon or a melon baller, scoop out portions of the cheese mixture and roll them into small, round balls with your hands. Once shaped, roll each truffle in the prepared coating mixture on the parchment paper, ensuring they’re completely covered.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Place the coated truffles into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld together and for firming up the truffles. Before serving, drizzle them lightly with some extra honey for an added touch of sweetness. Pair them with crackers or crostini for serving.
Variations
- Protein: Enhance by adding crispy bacon bits for a savory punch or switch to blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
- Vegetables: Integrate finely chopped green onions or chives for a twist with a mild onion flavor.
- Spices: Add a dash of nutmeg or ground ginger for a warmer spice profile.
Cooking Notes
- The truffles can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge, making them ideal for planning.
- If you find the truffle mixture too sticky, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
- Use fresh ingredients wherever possible as they greatly enhance the dish’s taste and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a selection of crisp crackers or lightly toasted crostini.
- Complement with a light, fruity white wine or sparkling champagne for an elevated experience.
Tips
- Ensure the cheeses are fully softened before mixing for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Experiment with different types of honey, such as wildflower or clover, to subtly change the truffles’ flavor.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 150 per truffle
- Protein: 3g per truffle
- Sodium: 90mg per truffle
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, substitute the goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
How long can these truffles be stored?
The truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
What if I’m allergic to nuts?
You can roll the cheese truffles in seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes, opt for plant-based cream cheese and a goat cheese alternative to create a vegan-friendly version.
Conclusion
The delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Truffles bring both charm and satisfaction to your dining table, making them a great conversation starter at any event. They’re not just an appetizer but a culinarian’s delight, offering a medley of flavors and textures with every bite. Beyond their basic recipe, the options for customization are endless, allowing you to explore your culinary creativity. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe at your next gathering, and feel free to share your feedback or adaptations. Who knows, it might just become your signature dish!
Print
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Truffles
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 truffles 1x
Description
The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Truffles effortlessly combine sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements for a sophisticated and comforting taste.
Ingredients
- 10 oz goat cheese, softened
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ cups finely diced pecans (divided)
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, finely minced
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and cinnamon. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Fold in ½ cup of diced pecans gently.
- Spread remaining pecans, chopped cranberries, and minced parsley on parchment paper.
- Scoop cheese mixture and roll into small balls. Coat with the prepared mixture.
- Chill the truffles for at least one hour before serving.
Notes
Chill time is essential for melding flavors and firming up the truffles.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Protein: 3 g