Sweet & Nutty Cranberry Pecan Cheese Bites

by

Description

Sweet & Nutty Cranberry Pecan Cheese Bites are the perfect bite-sized holiday appetizer! Creamy cheese is rolled in a crunchy mix of toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs for a delicious sweet-savory flavor. They are elegant, easy to prepare ahead of time, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for parties, potlucks, or festive gatherings.

 Ingredients For Sweet & Nutty Cranberry Pecan Cheese Bites

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded (or goat cheese for tang)

  • 1 tsp honey (optional, for sweetness)

  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

  • ½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

  • ½ cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped

  • Crackers or pretzel sticks, for serving/assembly

Instructions

  1. Mix the Cheese Base – In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar (or goat cheese), honey, and cinnamon until smooth.

  2. Shape Bites – Roll mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a tray lined with parchment paper.

  3. Prepare the Coating – In a shallow dish, mix together cranberries, toasted pecans, and parsley/chives.

  4. Roll the Bites – Coat each cheese ball thoroughly in the cranberry-pecan-herb mixture.

  5. Chill & Serve – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Serve with crackers or insert pretzel sticks for easy pick-up bites.

Notes

  • Use goat cheese for a tangier bite, or stick with cheddar/cream cheese for a creamier flavor.

  • Toasting pecans enhances their nutty aroma and crunch.

  • Can be made 24 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Tips

  • Wet your hands lightly to prevent sticking when rolling cheese balls.

  • For variety, swap pecans with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios.

  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet-spicy twist.

  • Serve chilled for best texture.

Servings

  • Makes 20–24 bites (about 8–10 servings as an appetizer).

Nutritional Info (per bite, approx.)

  • Calories: 95

  • Protein: 3g

  • Fat: 7g

  • Carbohydrates: 5g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 3g

 Benefits

  • High in protein & healthy fats from cheese and pecans.

  • Rich in antioxidants from cranberries.

  • Easy, no-bake recipe – great for parties.

  • Customizable with different nuts, cheeses, or herbs.

Q&A

Q: Can I freeze these cheese bites?
A: Yes, freeze them before rolling in the coating. When ready, thaw and roll in fresh cranberry-pecan mixture.

Q: Can I make them nut-free?
A: Absolutely—use sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or crushed pretzels instead of pecans.

Q: How long do they last in the fridge?
A: Up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Q: What can I serve with these?
A: Crackers, crostini, pretzel sticks, or fresh veggie sticks like celery and cucumber.

Leave a Comment