Description

This festive cranberry walnut cheese ball is creamy, tangy, and sweet with a crunchy coating—perfect for holiday gatherings or a quick appetizer everyone will love.

Ingredients

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, at room temperature

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon orange zest

1/2 cup finely chopped dried cranberries, divided

1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts

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Instructions

Let the cream cheese come to room temperature for easier mixing.

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, orange zest, and half of the chopped cranberries. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Shape the cheese mixture into a ball and place it in the center of a piece of plastic wrap.

Wrap tightly, shaping the mixture into a firm ball as you go.

Chill in the refrigerator overnight or until firm (at least a few hours).

Before serving, mix the remaining cranberries with the chopped walnuts.

Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the cranberry-walnut mixture until fully coated.

Serve with gluten-free crackers.

Notes

To make homemade dried cranberries, chop fresh cranberries, spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and dehydrate at 170ºF for about 6 hours.

Store-bought craisins can be used instead, though they are often sweetened.

Best served chilled; leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American