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These cranberry-pecan goat cheese balls are my go-to holiday appetizer when I want something that looks fancy but takes barely any effort. They’re sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy—all the textures in one perfect bite.

I started making these for a Friendsgiving years ago, and now they’re a must-have every December. The mix of creamy goat cheese, chewy cranberries, and toasty pecans feels super festive, especially when you roll them into mini balls for individual servings.

What I love most is how easy they are to prep ahead. You can make the cheese mixture days in advance and roll them in the coating just before serving. They’re great on a platter with crackers, or skewered with toothpicks for grab-and-go snacking.

Let’s roll up some holiday cheer—these little cheese bombs never last long!

🥕 Ingredients Overview

Goat Cheese – Creamy, tangy, and perfect as the base. You can also blend in a little cream cheese to mellow it out if needed.

Dried Cranberries – Add sweetness and chewy texture. Chop them up for better distribution.

Pecans – Toasted pecans add crunch and warmth. You can also sub walnuts or almonds.

Fresh Herbs (Optional) – Chopped parsley, rosemary, or thyme adds freshness and color.

Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional) – A tiny drizzle inside the mix or on top adds balance.

Salt & Pepper – Just a pinch enhances all the flavors.

Pro Tip: Let the goat cheese come to room temp before mixing—it’s much easier to work with!

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix softened goat cheese (and cream cheese if using) with chopped cranberries, a few chopped pecans, a touch of honey (optional), and salt and pepper to taste.
Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up. This makes rolling easier.
Prepare the Coating: On a plate, combine finely chopped pecans, cranberries, and optional herbs.
Roll into Balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the cheese mixture and roll into balls.
Coat the Cheese Balls: Roll each ball in the coating mixture until evenly covered.
Chill Until Serving: Keep chilled until ready to serve. Serve with crackers, crostini, or toothpicks.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not softening the cheese: makes mixing difficult.
Overmixing: can make it too soft to shape.
Skipping the chill time: they won’t roll well.
Using raw nuts: toasting brings out flavor.
Storing too long after coating: coating may get soggy.

🎨 Variations & Add-Ons

Mini Skewers – Add a toothpick and grape or cube of apple on top.
Spicy Twist – Mix in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeño.
Dairy-Free Version – Use dairy-free goat-style cheese.
Savory Swap – Use roasted garlic and chives instead of cranberries.
Holiday Garnish – Roll in parsley for green contrast.

📆 Make Ahead & Storage

Make the cheese mixture up to 3 days in advance. Store in the fridge and roll in coating right before serving for best texture.

Leftovers? Store coated balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Serve chilled or bring to room temp.

Freezing is not recommended—the texture gets too crumbly.

🥗 Nutrition Highlights

Gluten-free, high in protein and calcium. Easy to make vegetarian or dairy-free with simple swaps.