Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls

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Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls: Creamy, Tangy, and Perfectly Festive

A bite-sized appetizer with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, cranberries, and toasted walnuts—ideal for holiday spreads and party platters

Introduction: A Holiday Favorite in Every Bite

When it comes to holiday entertaining, few things are as delightful—or as easy—as a well-made cheese ball. These Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls take the classic concept and turn it into elegant, individual bites that are perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy gatherings. With creamy cheese, sweet-tart cranberries, and crunchy toasted walnuts, they strike the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Whether you serve them with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies, these mini cheese balls are guaranteed to impress. They’re festive, flavorful, and require no cooking—just mix, roll, chill, and serve.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cheese balls so irresistible:

Base:

  • Cream cheese (8 oz / 225 g, softened)
    Smooth and creamy—forms the foundation of the cheese ball.
  • Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (½ cup / 50 g)
    Adds bold flavor and a slight tang.

Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture and meltability.

Mix-Ins:

  • Dried cranberries (¼ cup / 30 g, chopped)
    Sweet and tart—adds festive color and flavor.
  • Chopped toasted walnuts (¼ cup / 30 g)
    Nutty and crunchy—adds texture and richness.

Optional: Toast walnuts in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes to enhance flavor.

Seasoning:

  • Garlic powder (1 tsp / 1 g)
    Adds savory depth.
  • Fresh thyme leaves (1 tsp / 1 g, optional)
    Adds herbal brightness—perfect for holiday flair.
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
    Balances and boosts all the flavors.

Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.

For Rolling:

  • Extra chopped walnuts and cranberries
    Creates a beautiful, textured coating and adds crunch.

Tip: Mix coating ingredients together for even distribution.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small scoop or spoon for shaping
  • Parchment paper
  • Refrigerator

Optional: Use food-safe gloves for easy rolling and less mess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a medium bowl:

  • Combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped cranberries, toasted walnuts, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Mix until fully combined and creamy.

Tip: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes for easier mixing.

Step 2: Shape the Cheese Balls

Using a spoon or small scoop:

  • Shape mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls.

Place on a parchment-lined tray.

Optional: Chill mixture for 10 minutes before shaping for firmer texture.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Balls

In a shallow bowl:

  • Combine extra chopped walnuts and cranberries.

Roll each cheese ball in the mixture until fully coated.

Tip: Press gently to help coating adhere.

Step 4: Chill

Place coated cheese balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Optional: Chill overnight for deeper flavor and easier handling.

Step 5: Serve

Serve chilled or at room temperature with:

  • Crackers
  • Crostini
  • Sliced baguette
  • Fresh veggie sticks

Yields:

  • 12 cheese balls

Presentation Tip: Arrange on a festive platter with rosemary sprigs and pomegranate seeds for holiday flair.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday parties
  • Cocktail hours
  • Potluck spreads
  • Cheese boards

Pair with:

  • Sparkling wine
  • Apple cider
  • Cranberry punch
  • A variety of crackers and breads

Tip: Serve with small toothpicks or appetizer forks for easy grabbing.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Savory Herb Cheese Balls

Add chopped chives, parsley, or dill to the mix.

Bacon Cranberry Cheese Balls

Add crumbled cooked bacon for smoky flavor.

Blue Cheese Twist

Swap cheddar for crumbled blue cheese.

Nut-Free Version

Use sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels instead of walnuts.

Vegetarian & Gluten-Free

Ensure all ingredients (especially crackers) are certified gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze uncoated cheese balls for up to 1 month. Thaw and roll in coating before serving.

Tip: Keep chilled until ready to serve for best texture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Cheese Ball, ~1 of 12)

  • Calories: ~110
  • Protein: ~3g
  • Carbohydrates: ~4g
  • Fat: ~9g
  • Sugar: ~2g
  • Sodium: ~120mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

These cheese balls are:

  • Creamy and tangy
  • Easy to make
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for gifting or sharing

Final Thoughts

These Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls are more than just an appetizer—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and festive charm. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or assembling a seasonal cheese board, they’re guaranteed to impress and delight.

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