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Classic Southern Pecan Cheese Ball – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Classic Southern Pecan Cheese Ball

A treasured family favorite, this classic Southern Pecan Cheese Ball is the perfect make-ahead appetizer. It's a creamy, tangy blend of cheeses coated in crunchy pecans, ideal for any holiday or party and a fantastic low-carb option.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 serving
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces (452 g / 15.9 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (113 g / 4 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons (16 g / 0.56 oz) Ranch Seasoning
  • 1 cup (120 g / 4.2 oz) chopped pecans
  • For Serving
  • Celery sticks
  • Mini sweet peppers
  • Pork rinds
  • Assorted crackers
  • for the Perfect Cheese Ball
  • For a deeper, nuttier flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Allow them to cool completely before coating the cheese ball.
  • For the smoothest texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps and makes combining a breeze.
  • This is the ultimate make-ahead appetizer. You can form the cheese ball (without the pecan coating) and wrap it tightly up to 3 days in advance. Roll it in the pecans just before serving to keep them perfectly crunchy.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, and Ranch seasoning.
  2. Mix with a spatula or an electric mixer on low speed until smooth and fully incorporated.
  3. Scrape the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help you form the mixture into a tight ball or disc shape.
  4. Spread the chopped pecans evenly on a plate or in a shallow dish.
  5. Unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the pecans, pressing lightly to ensure the entire surface is coated. Re-wrap the cheese ball tightly in fresh plastic wrap.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up completely.
  7. Serve chilled with your favorite dippers.
  8. Don't be afraid to customize!
  9. Mix in a tablespoon of finely chopped green onions, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 10gFat: 32g

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