Name: Pecan Pie Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 1 h 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup powdered sugar; ¼ cup brown sugar; ½ tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp cinnamon (optional); ½ cup chopped pecans; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp heavy cream; ¼ tsp vanilla extract

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A Pecan Pie Cheese Ball is a deliciously sweet and creamy appetizer or dessert that perfectly combines the flavors of pecan pie with a rich cheese ball. It’s easy to prepare and makes a fantastic crowd-pleaser for parties or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball:

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup powdered sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Pecan Pie Topping:

½ cup chopped pecans

2 tablespoon butter

2 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon heavy cream

¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the cheese ball: I beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Chill: I shape the mixture into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to let it firm up.

Make the pecan topping: In a small pan, I melt the butter and brown sugar together, then stir in the heavy cream and chopped pecans. I cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until it looks glossy and caramelized. Then, I let it cool slightly.

Coat the cheese ball: I roll or spoon the warm pecan topping over the chilled cheese ball, covering it evenly.

Serve: I like to serve this with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or apple slices for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings. The preparation takes roughly 15 minutes, plus at least 1 hour of chilling time.

Variations

For a more intense pecan flavor, I sometimes toast the pecans before adding them to the topping.

I can add a splash of bourbon or maple syrup to the pecan topping for a unique twist.

For a dairy-free version, I use vegan cream cheese and butter substitutes.

Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon adds a warm spice depth.

I also experiment by mixing in some chopped dried cranberries or raisins into the cheese ball for a fruity surprise.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cheese ball covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled, so I don’t recommend reheating it. If the topping softens a bit in the fridge, I let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the cheese ball slightly.

FAQs

Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead. Just keep it wrapped and refrigerated until ready to serve.

What can I use to dip with the cheese ball?

I usually serve it with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, apple slices, or even pretzels for a sweet and salty combo.

Can I use chopped walnuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts work great as a substitute, and they give a slightly different but still delicious texture and flavor.

Is the cinnamon necessary in the cheese ball?

I find cinnamon adds a nice warmth that complements the pecans and brown sugar, but it’s optional if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I freeze the cheese ball?

I don’t recommend freezing this recipe as the texture of the cream cheese and pecan topping can change after thawing.

Conclusion

This Pecan Pie Cheese Ball is one of my favorite treats to bring to gatherings because it’s sweet, creamy, and full of nutty flavor. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead, and offers a delightful alternative to traditional pecan pie. Whether I’m serving it as an appetizer or dessert, it always gets rave reviews. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do.

Recipe:

Pecan Pie Cheese Ball

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 17 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A Pecan Pie Cheese Ball is a deliciously sweet and creamy appetizer or dessert that combines the flavors of pecan pie with a rich, smooth cheese ball topped with a caramelized pecan mixture. It's easy to prepare, perfect for parties or cozy gatherings, and pairs well with graham crackers, apple slices, or vanilla wafers.

Instructions

Beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
Shape the mixture into a ball, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
In a small pan, melt butter and brown sugar together. Stir in heavy cream and chopped pecans.
Cook the pecan mixture for 1-2 minutes until glossy and caramelized, then let it cool slightly.
Roll or spoon the warm pecan topping over the chilled cheese ball, covering it evenly.
Serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or apple slices for dipping.