Easy Cheese Ball (Party and Holiday Appetizer)

Ingredients

• 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese ((2 bricks), softened)
• 1 1/2 cups sharp white cheddar (shredded)
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup toasted pecans (roughly chopped, divided)
• 1 cup dried cranberries (roughly chopped, divided)
• 2 tablespoons parsley (finely chopped, divided)
• 2 tablespoon chives (finely chopped, divided)
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds

Instructions

1. 1

   In a mixing bowl, add the cream cheese and beat until smooth and creamy. Add the shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half each of the pecans, cranberries, parsley, and chives.

2. 2

   Mix until fully combined then bring the mixture together with your hands into a ball shape. It will be a bit sticky so lightly wetting your hands with water first will help.

3. 3

   Spread the remaining pecans, cranberries and chives, along with the pumpkin seeds on a board, mixing them together.

4. 4

   Next, roll the cheeseball on the board and use your hands to press the ingredients to it so it’s completely coated. Cover with cling wrap and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes.

5. 5

   When you’re ready to serve, unwrap the cheeseball and place it on a serving platter.

6. 6

   Surround it with your choice of crackers then garnish with rosemary sprigs for a festive presentation.

7. 7

   Allow guests to dig in and help themselves. Enjoy!