Easy & Sweet Dried Fruit Cheese Ball 2025
Need a stunning appetizer that balances sweet, savory, and creamy flavors in every bite? This Dried Fruit Cheese Ball is your answer. Perfect for holidays, wine nights, or impromptu gatherings, this no-bake recipe comes together in minutes and disappears even faster. Discover how to create this versatile centerpiece—plus pro tips to make it unforgettable.
Table of Contents
Perfect For
- Holiday parties: Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year’s Eve charcuterie boards.
- Bridal or baby showers: A sophisticated addition to finger food spreads.
- Wine pairings: Ideal with crisp whites or bold reds.
- Weekend entertaining: Effortlessly elevate your snack game.
- Edible gifts: Package with artisanal crackers for a heartfelt present.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No cooking required: Mix, shape, chill—ready to serve.
- Dietary flexibility: Easily adapt to nut-free or dairy-free diets.
- Gourmet appeal: Looks and tastes like it came from a specialty shop.
- Make-ahead magic: Prepare up to 3 days in advance.
- Kid-friendly: A sweet-and-savory combo even picky eaters adore.
Ingredients You Need (Serves 4)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup dried apricots (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for coating)
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for coating)
Ingredient Highlights
- Cream cheese: Provides a rich, smooth base.
- Dried apricots & cranberries: Sweetness balanced with tangy depth.
- Pecans: Adds crunch and nutty richness (substitute sunflower seeds for nut-free).
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky warmth.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
- Mix the base: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar, dried apricots, cranberries, pecans, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Blend until fully incorporated.
- Shape the ball: Scoop mixture onto plastic wrap. Use the wrap to mold it into a firm ball, smoothing the surface.
- Coat evenly: Unwrap the ball and roll it in a mix of chopped parsley and extra pecans, pressing gently to adhere.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 1 hour to firm.
- Serve: Transfer to a plate and surround with crackers, sliced baguette, or fruit.
Table of Calories (Per Serving)
| Ingredient | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 100 |
| Cheddar Cheese | 60 |
| Dried Fruit | 45 |
| Pecans | 50 |
| Total | 255 |
How to Serve
- Pair with water crackers, apple slices, or toasted crostini.
- Garnish with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for extra flair.
- Add to a charcuterie board with cured meats and olives.
How to Store
- Refrigerator: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap; lasts up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze uncoated cheese ball for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then coat before serving.
Additional Tips
- Softening cream cheese: Leave at room temperature for 30 minutes for smoother mixing.
- Uniform coating: Chop nuts and parsley finely for even adherence.
- Double the batch: Make two smaller balls for easier serving at parties.
Recipe Variations
- Mediterranean twist: Swap dried fruit for sun-dried tomatoes and coat with basil.
- Spiced version: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for heat.
- Vegan option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and omit cheddar.
Special Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Sharp knife for chopping
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?
A: No—fresh fruit adds too much moisture. Stick to dried for the ideal texture.
Q: How do I make this nut-free?
A: Replace pecans with toasted pumpkin seeds or omit entirely.
Q: Can I use a food processor to mix ingredients?
A: Yes, but pulse gently to avoid over-blending the cheese.
Q: Why is my cheese ball too soft?
A: Chill it longer—up to 2 hours—for a firmer texture.
Conclusion
This Dried Fruit Cheese Ball is more than an appetizer—it’s a celebration of contrasts. Creamy meets crunchy, sweet dances with savory, and simplicity masquerades as elegance. Whether you’re hosting a festive soirée or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe promises to delight. Share it with loved ones, and watch it become a requested staple at every gathering.
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Share your experience with us
good for a nice dinner
nice
