Elevate your New Year’s Eve celebration with this delightful Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Ball Tower. Combining tangy cream cheese with a spicy kick from jalapeños and the sweetness of dried cranberries, this cheese ball tower is a show-stopping appetizer that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chopped pecans (for coating)
- Fresh cranberries and jalapeño slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, dried cranberries, finely chopped jalapeños, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Divide the cheese mixture into three equal portions. Using your hands, shape each portion into a ball.
- Roll each cheese ball in chopped pecans until fully coated. Place the cheese balls on a serving platter, stacking them to create a tower effect.
- Garnish the top cheese ball with fresh cranberries and jalapeño slices for a festive touch.
- Serve with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Variation
- Use goat cheese instead of feta for a different tangy flavor.
- Add finely chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- Incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky touch.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- If you prefer more heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in the mixture.
- The cheese balls can be frozen and thawed before serving as needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a platter of assorted crackers and sliced baguette.
- Pair with a glass of chilled white wine for a refreshing complement.
- Serve with a selection of fresh veggie sticks for a crisp, refreshing contrast.
Tips
- Make sure to finely chop the jalapeños to distribute the heat evenly.
- Use a sturdy platter to support the weight of the cheese ball tower.
- For a festive look, contrast the fresh cranberries with sprigs of fresh herbs.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 480mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make the cheese balls in advance?
Yes, they can be prepared a day ahead. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. - What if I want more spice?
Simply leave the jalapeño seeds in the mix. - Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts work as a great substitute.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Ball Tower is a vibrant and tantalizing addition to your appetizer spread. It features a harmonious blend of creamy, spicy, and sweet elements that make it a crowd-pleaser during any festive gathering. Easy to prepare, visually impressive, and bursting with flavor, it beautifully complements an array of dipping options, from crunchy crackers to crisp vegetable sticks. Make this delicious creation a centerpiece at your next celebration and enjoy the compliments from your guests!
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New Year’s Eve Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Ball Tower
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elevate your New Year’s Eve celebration with this delightful Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Ball Tower. Combining tangy cream cheese with a spicy kick from jalapeños and the sweetness of dried cranberries, this cheese ball tower is a show-stopping appetizer that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chopped pecans (for coating)
- Fresh cranberries and jalapeño slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, dried cranberries, finely chopped jalapeños, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Divide the cheese mixture into three equal portions. Using your hands, shape each portion into a ball.
- Roll each cheese ball in chopped pecans until fully coated. Place the cheese balls on a serving platter, stacking them to create a tower effect.
- Garnish the top cheese ball with fresh cranberries and jalapeño slices for a festive touch.
- Serve with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Notes
- Refrigerate the cheese balls for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Ball, appetizer, New Year’s Eve, cheese ball tower
