Cranberry Pecan Caramelized Onion Cheeseball Recipe
This Cranberry Pecan Caramelized Onion Cheeseball is a delightful appetizer blending creamy cheese, sweet caramelized onions, crunchy toasted pecans, and tangy dried cranberries. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any party, this elegant cheeseball pairs beautifully with crackers, chips, or sliced apples for a crowd-pleasing starter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Onions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium sweet onion, very thinly sliced
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 4 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated white cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Crunchy Toppings
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped into smaller pieces
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions and sauté, stirring frequently for 25-30 minutes until the onions become deeply golden and caramelized, reaching an almost jam-like consistency.
- Toast the Pecans: While the onions caramelize, heat another skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped pecans and toast for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly and watching closely to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, caramelized onions, grated white cheddar, half of the toasted pecans, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use electric beaters to blend everything until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Toppings: On a plate, mix the remaining toasted pecans with the chopped dried cranberries, stirring together with your fingers to blend the flavors and textures.
- Form the Cheeseball: Using your hands, shape the cheese mixture into a ball. Gently roll the cheeseball in the pecan and cranberry mixture to coat evenly. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
- Serve: For best flavor and texture, allow the cheeseball to sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving. Accompany with your favorite crackers, chips, or sliced apples for an inviting appetizer.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions is a slow process but key to developing deep, sweet flavor; do not rush it by increasing heat.
- Toast pecans carefully and stir frequently to avoid burning and bring out their nutty flavor.
- Allowing the cheeseball to rest at room temperature before serving enhances the softness and flavor.
- Chopping dried cranberries into smaller pieces helps them adhere better to the cheeseball and distributes the tartness evenly.
- This cheeseball can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
Keywords: cranberry pecan cheeseball, caramelized onion cheeseball, holiday appetizers, party snacks, creamy cheeseball, sweet and savory hors d'oeuvre
