Description
Sweet & Nutty Cranberry Pecan Cheese Bites are the ideal way to elevate your snacking game this holiday season!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup pecans, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by placing the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, and crumbled feta cheese into a mixing bowl. Use a fork or a hand mixer to combine the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. The goal is to create a well-blended cheese base that has a rich flavor. Make sure there are no lumps so that your bites have a consistent texture. This step is crucial as it forms the creamy foundation for your cheese bites.
- Once your cheese base is ready, it’s time to introduce the other flavors. Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, finely chopped pecans, and green onions. These ingredients add delightful texture and flavor that contrast beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste! Mix until everything is evenly incorporated, ensuring each bite has the perfect balance of flavors.
- Now comes the fun part! With clean hands or using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the cheese mixture and shape them into small bite-sized balls or mounds. If you prefer a large cheese ball for serving, just form one big ball instead. The formed bites should be uniform in size for even coating and presentation. Next, combine the extra chopped dried cranberries and finely chopped pecans on a plate or shallow dish. Carefully roll each cheese bite in this mixture to coat them fully. This not only adds a lovely crunchy texture but also enhances the visual appeal.
- Once your cheese bites are coated, place them on a serving plate and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the bites firm up. This step is important as it helps maintain the shape of the bites when you serve them. When you’re ready to serve, lay out a beautiful spread of crackers or fresh veggie sticks alongside your cheese bites. This contrast will make for an attractive and delectable appetizer that is sure to please!
Notes
To make shaping easier, wet your hands slightly before forming the bites; this will prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 5 g