Recipe Video - OnlineCook

February 19, 2025

I could eat 100 of these cranberry orange cheese balls, they are so good. With white cheddar, cranberries, orange zest, thyme, toasted pecans, and maple syrup, they're a sweet, savory, and nutty appetizer. The recipe is easy, has just a handful of ingredients, and comes together in less than 30 minutes for an elegant last-minute party snack. They're perfect for holiday parties like Christmas and New Year's!

11 Ingredients

Recipe

Cranberry Orange Cheese Balls

Sunday Table

Ingredients

Cheese Balls

Warning0 allergens identified

Instructions

Add the cream cheese, sharp white cheddar cheese, maple syrup, orange zest, thyme, salt, and pepper to a large bowl. Then, tip in half of the pecans and half of the dried cranberries. (Reserve the remaining pecans and cranberries for later). Use a rubber spatula or hand mixer to mix the ingredients together until it is smooth and combined.

Portion the cranberry orange cheese using a #40 (1 ounce, 2 Tablespoon) cookie scoop. Roll each portion of cheese between your palms to create smooth balls. Place the cheese balls on a parchment-lined sheet pan and cover. Refrigerate until you're ready to serve.

About 15 minutes before serving, remove the cheese balls from the fridge and let them warm up just a bit. Combine the remaining pecans, cranberries, and parsley in a shallow dish or pie plate. Gently roll each cheese ball until the outside is well-coated. If the mixture doesn't stick, use your fingers to gently press the coating on the outside of the cheese balls.

Place the prepared cheese balls on a platter. Serve with crackers, pretzels, fruit, vegetables, or other snacks. Enjoy!

Video Tutorial Bite Tutorial

Smart Nutrition

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Zest Technique 🍊
When zesting the orange, use only the bright orange outer layer and avoid the bitter white pith underneath to ensure a clean, bright citrus flavor.
Cheese Ball Binding 🧀
Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming balls to help them hold their shape and make rolling easier.
Pecan Toasting Hack 🥜
Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, to enhance their nutty flavor and prevent burning.
Maple Syrup Balance 🍯
Add maple syrup gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect sweet-savory balance without overwhelming the cheese and herbs.
Make-Ahead Magic ❄️
Cheese balls can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making party prep a breeze.