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Pepper Jelly Cheese Ball with Pecans

  • Author: ChefSophia
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian (if using vegetarian Worcestershire)

Description

This Pepper Jelly Cheese Ball with Pecans is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that hits all the right notes—creamy, tangy, sweet, spicy, and crunchy. A blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar is rolled in toasted pecans, then finished with a vibrant pepper jelly drizzle. It’s effortless to make ahead, perfect for parties, holidays, or game day, and always the first thing to disappear from the snack table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup pepper jelly
  • ½ cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
  • Crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables, for serving

Instructions

  1. 1. Mix the cheese base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Beat or stir until very smooth and well combined.
  2. 2. Shape the cheese ball: Scoop the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help form it into a ball (or log). Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to hold its shape.
  3. 3. Prep the pecan coating: Place the finely chopped pecans on a plate or shallow dish. If desired, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, then cool completely before using.
  4. 4. Coat the cheese ball: Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the chopped pecans, pressing gently so they adhere evenly to the surface.
  5. 5. Add pepper jelly and garnish: Transfer the coated cheese ball to a serving platter. Spoon or drizzle the pepper jelly over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley, if using.
  6. 6. Serve: Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve. Pair with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping and spreading.

Notes

  • For the best texture, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing so it blends smoothly with the cheddar.
  • Chill time is key—if the cheese ball isn’t firm, it will be harder to coat in pecans and won’t slice as cleanly.
  • If your pepper jelly is very thick, you can briefly warm it in the microwave (10–15 seconds) to make it easier to drizzle.
  • You can shape this into two smaller cheese balls instead of one large one for smaller gatherings or multiple serving platters.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of cheese ball
  • Calories: ≈ 320 kcal
  • Sugar: ≈ 11 g
  • Sodium: ≈ 420 mg
  • Fat: ≈ 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: ≈ 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ≈ 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: ≈ 11 g
  • Fiber: ≈ 1 g
  • Protein: ≈ 9 g
  • Cholesterol: ≈ 55 mg

Keywords: pepper jelly cheese ball, cheese ball with pecans, holiday appetizer, party dip, no bake appetizer

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Find it online: https://chefsophia.com/pepper-jelly-cheese-ball-with-pecans/