Cranberry Pecan Mini Goat Cheese Balls
These mini cheese balls combine creamy goat cheese coated with tart dried cranberries and crispy roasted pecans. They are shaped into small, rustic bites and chilled until firm, with a textured exterior and a soft, tangy interior. Perfect as a festive appetizer with a balance of crunch, sweetness, and creaminess.
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Calories: 120kcal
Servings: 12
Equipment
- Small Spoon or Cookie Scoop
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- 8 oz goat cheese, chilled softened slightly for easier shaping
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries chopped if large
- 1 cup roasted pecans roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, for sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional, for added warmth
Instructions
- Crumble the chilled goat cheese into a mixing bowl, breaking it apart with a spoon until it becomes slightly softer and easier to work with.
- Add the chopped dried cranberries, roasted pecans, honey, and cinnamon to the goat cheese. Mix everything together gently until well combined, using a spatula or spoon.
- Once the mixture is cohesive and slightly sticky, scoop out about a tablespoon at a time and roll between your palms to form small, round balls.
- Place the formed cheese balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly.
- Refrigerate the cheese balls for at least 15 minutes to firm up and set their shape.
- Serve the mini goat cheese balls directly from the fridge, garnished with extra cranberries or chopped pecans if desired, for a festive presentation.
Notes
For a more festive look, sprinkle with additional cranberries or chopped herbs before serving. These cheese balls can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated until serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 80mg | Potassium: 40mg | Sugar: 6g | Calcium: 20mg