Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls are not just an appetizer; they’re a joyful bite of festive spirit wrapped in creamy goodness! Perfect for your holiday gatherings, these cheese balls bring together the flavors of tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and rich cheese that dance in perfect harmony. The soft cream cheese and zesty sharp cheddar make each bite indulgently creamy while also satisfying your savory cravings. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for an easy appetizer, or simply want to indulge in some holiday cheer, these cheese balls are a stellar choice! Best of all, they come together quickly, requiring minimal preparation time, so you can whip them up last minute and still impress your guests.
What’s more, the versatility of the Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls allows you to personalize them to your taste. The combination of sweet and savory flavors combined with the crunch of nuts makes for an unforgettable bite. Not to mention, they make a beautiful addition to your holiday platter, garnished with sprigs of fresh parsley. With their eye-catching appearance and delightful taste, these cheese balls are sure to become a staple in your holiday recipe repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls
- Festive Flavor: The mix of sweet cranberries and savory cheese creates a delightful contrast that keeps your taste buds intrigued.
- Easy Preparation: Minimal cooking skills required! Just mix, roll, and serve for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare these cheese balls in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with different nuts or cheeses based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Great for Any Occasion: While perfect for Christmas, these cheese balls are great for any gathering or casual get-together.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the festive cooking, let’s get your kitchen prepped. To make the Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls successfully, you’ll want to gather the right tools to ensure a smooth process. First, you’ll need a medium mixing bowl where the main ingredients can come together harmoniously. A sturdy spatula or wooden spoon is ideal for mixing, allowing you to easily combine the cheeses and other ingredients thoroughly.
A measuring cup and spoon will be essential for accurate measurements of the ingredients. Additionally, you may want to have a clean cutting board and a sharp knife for chopping the cranberries and walnuts to the right size. Lastly, prepare a serving platter to display your festive cheese balls once they are ready, garnished beautifully with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar
- ½ cup chopped dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup finely chopped walnuts (mixed in)
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts (for coating)
- 1 tbsp minced fresh parsley
- Pinch of salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Creamy Base
Start by gathering your softened cream cheese and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese in a medium mixing bowl. Using a sturdy spatula or a hand mixer, blend the two ingredients together until they are smooth and creamy. This base is the heart of your cheese balls, so take your time to ensure that there are no lumps. A smooth mixture will allow for better incorporation of all other flavors later on.
Step 2: Incorporate Mix-ins
Now, it’s time to add the fun ingredients! Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and walnuts, along with the minced parsley, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Be gentle as you mix; folding keeps the texture light and airy. Make sure all components are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture. If you’re feeling adventurous, this is a great step to add in a bit of your favorite spices or herbs for an extra kick!
Step 3: Form the Cheese Balls
Once everything is well mixed, it’s time to shape your cheese balls! Use a cookie scoop or your hands to scoop out portions of the mixture. Roll them gently between your palms to form small balls, about one inch in diameter. This is a fun step where you can enlist the help of family or friends for a little holiday fun. Make sure they are tightly packed, so they hold their shape while refrigerating.
Step 4: Coat with Walnuts
Taking the remaining finely chopped walnuts, place them on a small plate. Roll each cheese ball in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they’re completely coated for added crunch and flavor. This step not only adds texture but also delicious nutty flavor to each bite. Once coated, place each cheese ball back on your serving platter.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
To allow the flavors to meld, cover your serving platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will also help them firm up slightly, making the cheese balls easier to serve. Just before serving, you can garnish the platter with fresh parsley sprigs for a festive touch. Enjoy your delicious Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls with your guests!
Variations
- Protein: Incorporate some crumbled bacon or diced ham for a meaty twist that will delight the carnivores in the group.
- Vegetables: Add finely diced red bell pepper or green onions for a fresh crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
- Spices: Elevate the flavor by mixing in some garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
Cooking Notes
- For a richer flavor, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about an hour before mixing.
- Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded will lend a better texture to your cheese balls.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these cheese balls alongside a variety of crackers and fruit slices for a beautiful cheese board.
- Pair with a selection of wines for a sophisticated holiday app instead of just casual snacking!
Tips
- Feel free to get creative with your toppings by using crushed pretzels or even shredded coconut for a unique twist.
- If you’re short on time, consider preparing the cheese ball mixture ahead of time and roll them just before serving.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking involved)
- Total Time: 30 minutes (including chilling)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150 per cheese ball
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Can I make these cheese balls in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance. Just make sure to keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with these cheese balls?
These cheese balls pair wonderfully with crackers, fresh fruit, and various dipping sauces like honey or spicy mustard.
Can I freeze the cheese balls?
Yes, these cheese balls can be frozen! Just ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag.
What variations can I try?
You can play around with various nuts or cheeses or even incorporate spices to customize them to your liking!
Conclusion
The Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls are not just a dish; they embody the spirit of celebration and togetherness that the holiday season brings. With the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, these cheese balls will stand out at any gathering, delighting guests with every bite. By following this easy recipe, you can create a delicious appetizer that will be remembered long after the holidays are over. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make this festive treat. Don’t forget to let us know how your cheese balls turned out or share your unique variations in the comments below. Happy holidays and happy snacking!
Print
Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls are not just an appetizer; they’re a joyful bite of festive spirit wrapped in creamy goodness!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar
- ½ cup chopped dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup finely chopped walnuts (mixed in)
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts (for coating)
- 1 tbsp minced fresh parsley
- Pinch of salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by gathering your softened cream cheese and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese in a medium mixing bowl. Using a sturdy spatula or a hand mixer, blend the two ingredients together until they are smooth and creamy.
- Now, it’s time to add the fun ingredients! Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and walnuts, along with the minced parsley, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Once everything is well mixed, it’s time to shape your cheese balls! Use a cookie scoop or your hands to scoop out portions of the mixture.
- Taking the remaining finely chopped walnuts, place them on a small plate. Roll each cheese ball in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they’re completely coated for added crunch and flavor.
- To allow the flavors to meld, cover your serving platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Notes
Feel free to get creative with your toppings by using crushed pretzels or even shredded coconut for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 4 g