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.
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
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.
Notes
Toast pecans before adding to the topping for a more intense pecan flavor.
Add a splash of bourbon or maple syrup to the pecan topping for a unique twist.
Use vegan cream cheese and butter substitutes for a dairy-free version.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger with the cinnamon for warm spice depth.
Mix in chopped dried cranberries or raisins into the cheese ball for a fruity surprise.
Store covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; serve chilled.
Allow the cheese ball to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving if the topping softens too much in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dessert
- Method: No-bake, Refrigerated
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of cheese ball
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
