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Cranberry Pecan Mini Goat Cheese Balls Recipe

Cranberry Pecan Mini Goat Cheese Balls Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 22 reviews

These Cranberry Pecan Mini Goat Cheese Balls are delightful, bite-sized appetizers perfect for festive gatherings or elegant parties. Creamy goat cheese is rolled into small balls and coated with a crunchy, sweet-tart mixture of chopped dried cranberries and toasted pecans, with an optional touch of honey for added sweetness. They offer a harmonious blend of creamy, nutty, and fruity flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Base

  • 8 oz goat cheese, softened (preferably at room temperature)

Coating

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped (choose tart cranberries)
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped (unsalted and toasted)

Optional

  • 2 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese: Add the softened goat cheese into a mixing bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to stir it until smooth and creamy, making it easy to shape.
  2. Form Mini Balls: Using a mini scoop or a teaspoon, portion out small amounts of the cheese and roll them gently between your palms to form tiny rounds. Place these mini cheese balls onto a plate or tray lined with parchment.
  3. Prepare Coating Mixture: In a small shallow dish, combine the chopped cranberries and toasted pecans. Drizzle in honey if you like a touch of sweetness, then toss to coat evenly.
  4. Coat Cheese Balls: Roll each mini goat cheese ball gently in the cranberry and pecan mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick. Turn to coat all sides evenly for a textured, colorful exterior.
  5. Chill if Desired: Place the coated cheese balls on a serving platter. If desired, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to help them firm up before serving.
  6. Serve: Enjoy these bite-sized festive appetizers immediately, or keep chilled until ready to serve for the freshest texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Softening the goat cheese to room temperature makes it easier to shape the balls.
  • To toast pecans, dry roast them in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
  • Honey is optional and can be adjusted or omitted based on sweetness preference.
  • These cheese balls can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • For added flavor, consider including a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest in the cranberry mixture.
  • Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or as part of a cheese platter.

Nutrition

Keywords: goat cheese balls, cranberry pecan appetizers, festive cheese bites, holiday appetizers, easy party recipes, no-cook cheese balls

Find it online: https://reemcook.com/cranberry-pecan-mini-goat-cheese-balls-recipe/