Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Christmas Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls

Delicious and festive cheese balls packed with cranberries and walnuts, perfect for holiday parties. These easy-to-make appetizers are a crowd-pleaser, combining creamy cheese with tangy fruit and crunchy nuts for a burst of holiday flavor.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For Coating:
  • 1/2 cup additional walnuts, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, green onions, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix everything together until well incorporated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
  3. Scoop out portions of the cheese mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
  4. For Coating:
  5. Mix the additional chopped walnuts and chopped dried cranberries in a shallow dish.
  6. Roll each cheese ball in the walnut-cranberry mixture until coated evenly.
  7. Place the coated cheese balls on a plate and refrigerate for another 30 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables.

Notes

These cheese balls can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For extra cheesiness, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika to the mixture. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of cranberries.

  • Author: Chef Sally
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Method: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 6g