Cream Cheese Pecan Ball
Creamy, chocolatey, and nutty, this Pecan Ball offers a delightful treat perfect for parties or gatherings, combining rich cream cheese, mini chocolate chips, and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream all ingredients together until smooth.
- Refrigerate until the mixture is firm, several hours.
- Shape the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the ball in chopped or crushed pecans.
- Serve with chocolate graham crackers or chocolate wafers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor. If you want a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute in the powdered sugar and brown sugar measurements.
Serving Suggestions
This Cream Cheese Pecan Ball pairs beautifully with chocolate graham crackers or chocolate wafers for a delightful contrast. For an added touch, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a selection of cheeses. It also makes a great appetizer for gatherings, complementing a variety of other snacks like charcuterie or vegetable trays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the mixture becomes too soft, let it chill for 30 minutes before serving again. For a quick refresh, you can roll it in additional pecans just before serving to maintain its texture and presentation.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Pecan Ball contains roughly 853 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cream Cheese Pecan Ball up to two days in advance. Simply shape it and roll it in the pecans, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips or even dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a unique twist. Both options will add a different texture and sweetness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cream Cheese Pecan Ball is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients beyond dairy. For a vegan version, consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative and a suitable vegan butter substitute.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).