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Pecan Rosemary Cheesy Delight

Pecan Rosemary Cheesy Delight

Approx. Time:
15 min prep • 10 min cook • 15 min chill • 40 min total
Servings:
10 to 12 servings

Elevate Your Appetizer Game!

Let’s talk about the cheese ball glow-up—because this is not your grandma’s party dip. This Pecan Rosemary Cheesy Delight is one of those appetizers that looks fancy but comes together quickly and always disappears first at the table. Trust me, I’ve made it for clients, family, friends—you name it—and everyone asks for the recipe before they’re even done chewing. 😂

I wanted to create something creamy, herby, crunchy, sweet, and just a little spicy… because why settle for less, right? The base is simple: cream cheese and sharp cheddar whipped up with fresh rosemary (which makes the whole kitchen smell like magic), lemon zest, garlic, and a ton of chives for that fresh bite. Then comes the best part: the topping. Toasted pecans and pepitas tossed in maple syrup, cinnamon with a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick. Add in chopped cranberries and more chives, and you’ve got texture and flavor in every bite.

This recipe is perfect for holiday tables, brunch spreads, wine nights, or just when you want to show off a little without breaking a sweat. You can prep it ahead, pop it in the fridge, and pull it out when the guests arrive looking like a total appetizer queen (or king!).

Serve it with crackers, crostini, or even cucumber rounds if you want to keep things lighter. However you plate it, just make sure you grab your bite early… because once it hits the table, it’s game over. 😉

If you make it, tell me I LOVE seeing your creations and how you make them your own. ❤️

✨ Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a savory showstopper ✨

Ingredient List

For the Cheese Ball:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • ½ cup fresh chives, sliced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Coating:

  • ½ cup pecans, chopped
  • ½ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds), chopped
  • ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • ½ cup fresh chives, sliced
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • Pinch of cinnamon  

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  1. Toast the Topping: On a lined baking sheet, toss pecans and pepitas with maple syrup, cinnamon and cayenne. Spread in a single layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.
  1. Make the Cheese Ball: In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, rosemary, garlic, lemon zest, chives, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  1. Shape: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the mixture into the center, wrap it tightly, and shape into a ball. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
  1. Roll & Serve: In a bowl, combine the cooled nut mixture with cranberries and chives. Unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the coating mixture until evenly covered.
  1. Enjoy! Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggie sticks.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving, based on 12 servings

  • Calories: ~230
  • Protein: ~6g
  • Fat: ~19g
  • Carbs: ~9g
  • Sugar: ~5g
  • Fiber: ~2g
  • Sodium: ~220mg

💬 Macro Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the brands and portion sizes you use. For best accuracy, we recommend calculating based on your actual ingredients.