Prepare to transform your appetizer game with the most irresistible party snack that will have your guests begging for the recipe! This Cranberry Bacon Cheese Ball is not just another boring appetizer – it's a symphony of savory bacon, tangy cranberries, and creamy cheese that promises to be the star of any gathering. Whether you're hosting a game day party, holiday celebration, or just craving a decadent snack, this crowd-pleasing recipe will elevate your culinary reputation in just minutes.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and let soften at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to ensure easy mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Fold in dried cranberries gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean work surface. Transfer the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap and use the wrap to help shape the mixture into a compact ball.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
- Before serving, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in additional crumbled bacon or chopped nuts for extra texture and presentation.
- Serve chilled with crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
- Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing. This creates a perfectly creamy texture.
- Bacon Brilliance: Use high-quality, thick-cut bacon and crumble it finely for the best flavor and texture distribution.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This cheese ball actually tastes better when prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Presentation Perfection: For a stunning look, roll the cheese ball in extra crumbled bacon or chopped nuts right before serving to create a beautiful, textured exterior.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a variety of dippers like crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks to complement the rich flavors.
- Storage Tip: Always keep refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and food safety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
