Cranberry Pecan Holiday Snack Balls Recipe

Nothing captures the warmth and joy of the holiday season quite like gathering around the table with friends and family, sharing laughter, stories, and delicious treats. These Cranberry Pecan Holiday Snack Balls are the perfect addition to any festive spread, combining the sweet-tart flavor of dried cranberries with the rich, buttery crunch of pecans. Inspired by cherished family traditions of creating easy, no-bake treats during the busiest time of year, this recipe brings together flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike. Whether served as a bite-sized dessert at a holiday party or a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of tea, these snack balls are guaranteed to become a favorite in your seasonal recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Additional pecans or shredded coconut for rolling (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. It’s important that the cream cheese is at room temperature, as this makes it easier to blend smoothly with the other ingredients. Next, add the chopped dried cranberries, which bring a delightful tartness that balances the rich, creamy texture of the cheese. Drizzle in honey for natural sweetness and add vanilla extract for depth of flavor. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, making the snack balls taste perfectly balanced.

Using a hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon, blend all the ingredients together. Take your time to mix thoroughly, ensuring the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese. The mixture should be smooth, slightly sticky, and uniform in texture. If you notice any lumps, continue mixing until fully incorporated. This step sets the foundation for a flavorful and cohesive snack ball.

Add the Pecans

Once your cheese mixture is smooth, it’s time to fold in the finely chopped pecans. Gently fold them into the mixture rather than stirring vigorously. This helps maintain the nutty texture without crushing the cranberries or making the mixture too soft. The pecans add a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy base and the tart cranberries, creating a perfect balance in each bite.

Take a moment to ensure the pecans are evenly spread throughout the mixture. Uneven distribution may result in some balls having too many nuts while others have too few, which can affect both flavor and texture. Folding carefully also ensures that the mixture maintains its shape when chilled.

Chill the Mixture

After combining the pecans, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid. Place the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling is a crucial step because it firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle and roll into balls. If you try shaping the snack balls immediately, the mixture may be too soft and sticky, which can be frustrating and messy.

For faster chilling, you can place the bowl in the freezer for 15–20 minutes, but be careful not to freeze it completely. The goal is a firm but pliable texture that is easy to scoop and roll.

Shape the Balls

Once the mixture is chilled, scoop out small portions using your hands or a cookie scoop to ensure uniform size. Roll each portion into a 1-inch ball, using gentle pressure to keep the shape compact without squishing the ingredients. Take your time to shape each ball neatly, as this enhances both the presentation and the eating experience.

Coat the Snack Balls

For added texture and visual appeal, you can roll the balls in additional chopped pecans or shredded coconut. This step is optional but highly recommended for a festive touch. The coating adds an extra layer of flavor and gives the snack balls a polished, finished look. Press lightly to ensure the coating adheres to the surface of each ball.

Serve or Store

Arrange the finished snack balls on a serving platter for immediate enjoyment. They make a beautiful addition to any holiday or casual snack table. If not serving right away, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This ensures they remain fresh, firm, and flavorful for several days, making them perfect for holiday prep or quick, grab-and-go snacks.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)

• Yield: 20–24 snack balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients

Nothing complicated here—just wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of cream cheese, cranberries, and pecans is classic, yet the addition of honey adds subtle sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors.

Quick and Easy Preparation

With no baking required, these snack balls are perfect for busy holiday preparations. The most time-consuming step is chilling, which means you can multitask—decorating the tree, wrapping gifts, or sipping a cup of cocoa.

Versatile Snack

These cranberry pecan balls are not just for the holidays. Their balance of sweetness and nuttiness makes them an ideal snack for lunchboxes, picnics, or afternoon tea.

Kid-Friendly

Kids love rolling the balls and coating them in coconut or pecans. It’s a fun, interactive way to get them involved in holiday cooking without any risk of burns or complicated steps.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Pecan Snack Balls

1. Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese
   Allowing the cream cheese to soften at room temperature ensures a smoother mixture that’s easier to roll into balls. Cold cream cheese can make the mixture lumpy and difficult to shape.

2. Chop Ingredients Uniformly
   For the best texture and appearance, chop both cranberries and pecans evenly. This ensures that every bite has a balanced combination of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors.

3. Don’t Skip Chilling
   Refrigeration is key. Chilling the mixture firms it up, making rolling easy and preventing the balls from sticking to your hands. If you’re short on time, place the mixture in the freezer for 15–20 minutes to achieve the same effect.

4. Experiment with Coatings
   While chopped pecans or shredded coconut are classic, try rolling the balls in cocoa powder, finely crushed graham crackers, or even finely chopped dried apricots for a creative twist.

5. Portion Control
   Use a small cookie scoop to ensure that all snack balls are the same size. This not only looks more appealing on a platter but also helps with consistent flavor in every bite.

Serving Ideas

These Cranberry Pecan Holiday Snack Balls are versatile and can be served in multiple ways to elevate your festive spread:

• Party Platter: Arrange the balls on a decorative tray with sprigs of rosemary or holly for a beautiful centerpiece at holiday parties.

• Gifting Option: Place a few in a small cellophane bag tied with a ribbon for a homemade holiday gift. They’re perfect for neighbors, teachers, or co-workers.

• Snack Time: Serve alongside tea, coffee, or hot cocoa for a cozy winter afternoon snack.

• Dessert Addition: Add a few to a dessert table for weddings, baby showers, or birthday celebrations—they complement other treats like cookies and fudge beautifully.

These snack balls are appealing not only for their taste but also for their eye-catching presentation. The combination of red cranberries and golden pecans instantly brightens any table.

Variations to Try

1. Chocolate Drizzle
   Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the snack balls for an elegant finish. This adds a subtle sweetness and makes them perfect for a holiday dessert table.

2. Nut-Free Option
   For those with nut allergies, substitute the pecans with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

3. Citrus Twist
   Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the mixture for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.

4. Spiced Version
   Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor profile. This is especially great for winter gatherings.

5. Mini Size for Kids
   Make mini versions of the snack balls for lunchboxes or a kid-friendly treat. Smaller sizes also allow for easier portion control at parties.

Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures your Cranberry Pecan Snack Balls remain fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

• Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

• Avoid Moisture: Keep them away from moisture to prevent the balls from becoming too soft. Using parchment paper between layers helps prevent sticking.

With these storage tips, you can prepare these snack balls ahead of time, making them perfect for holiday entertaining or as a ready-to-eat snack for busy weekdays.

Why These Snack Balls Are a Holiday Favorite

The combination of flavors and textures in these Cranberry Pecan Holiday Snack Balls makes them an instant hit. They’re sweet, nutty, and slightly tart, offering a satisfying bite every time. Their no-bake simplicity and versatile presentation make them suitable for both casual family gatherings and formal holiday parties.

These snack balls are also customizable. By adjusting the coatings or adding optional flavorings, you can create a variety of versions from a single base recipe. This makes them a practical choice when entertaining, as you can cater to different tastes without extra effort.

FAQ

1. Can I make these snack balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Chilling them for an hour helps firm them up, but they can stay fresh for up to a week, making them perfect for holiday prep.

2. Can I substitute the cranberries or pecans?
Yes. Dried cherries, raisins, or chopped apricots work well instead of cranberries. For nuts, walnuts, almonds, or seeds are excellent alternatives, accommodating allergies or taste preferences.

3. How can I make these snack balls look more festive?
Roll them in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or drizzle with chocolate for a polished look. You can also garnish with edible glitter, crushed candy canes, or small sprinkles for a holiday-themed presentation.

4. Are these snack balls suitable for kids?
Definitely! They’re soft, bite-sized, and easy to roll, making them a fun activity for kids to help prepare. Plus, the combination of sweet cranberries and nutty pecans appeals to young taste buds without any added alcohol or pork products.

Cranberry Pecan Holiday Snack Balls Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
• Yield: 20–24 snack balls 1x

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Description

These Cranberry Pecan Holiday Snack Balls are a delightful no-bake treat perfect for festive gatherings, cozy winter afternoons, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Sweet dried cranberries and crunchy pecans come together in a creamy, flavorful base, creating a snack that’s both satisfying and visually appealing. Inspired by classic holiday flavors, this recipe is easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing for a party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, these snack balls are a simple way to add a touch of seasonal joy to any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Additional pecans or shredded coconut for rolling (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dried cranberries, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a hand mixer or wooden spoon to blend the ingredients until smooth and evenly mixed.

2. Add the Pecans: Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

3. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the mixture for easier shaping.

4. Shape the Balls: Scoop out small portions of the chilled mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop for uniform size.

5. Coat the Snack Balls: Optional – roll the balls in additional chopped pecans or shredded coconut for added texture and visual appeal.

6. Serve or Store: Arrange the snack balls on a serving platter or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)

• Yield: 20–24 snack balls

Notes

• • Allow cream cheese to soften to room temperature for smoother mixing.

  • Chilling is essential for easy rolling and handling.

  • Try rolling in cocoa powder or finely crushed graham crackers for a variation.

  • Perfect for gifting when placed in small decorative bags or boxes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes

Michelle Davis