Description
Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls are creamy, tangy, and bite-sized appetizers bursting with flavor, perfect for holidays and parties.
Ingredients
8 oz (225g) goat cheese, softened
½ cup (60g) dried cranberries, chopped
½ cup (50g) pecans, finely chopped
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon orange zest
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, combine softened goat cheese, honey, and orange zest until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped cranberries and half of the chopped pecans.
3. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
4. Roll each ball in the remaining chopped pecans to coat evenly.
5. Arrange the cheese balls on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Tips & Variations:
– Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans.
– Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for festive flavor.
– Roll in pistachios or chopped dried apricots for variety.
– Use flavored goat cheese for extra depth.
– Make mini versions for bite-sized hors d’oeuvres.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 90
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg