Ingredients:
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
1/2 cup toasted pecans (chopped)
Extra pecans and cranberries for rolling the ball
Crackers, pretzels, or fresh fruit for serving
Instructions:
Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer for easier mixing.
Fold in the Cranberries:
Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture.
Shape the Cheese Ball:
Use your hands or a spoon to form the mixture into a ball. Place it on a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
Coat the Cheese Ball:
In a shallow dish, combine the chopped pecans and any extra cranberries (if desired). Roll the cheese ball in the mixture, pressing lightly to coat the entire surface with the pecans and cranberries.
Chill:
Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
Serve:
When ready to serve, transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and pair it with crackers, pretzels, or fresh fruit for dipping.