Make This Butter Pecan Cheese Ball for Instant Holiday Fun
Try our butter pecan cheese ball recipe for a delightful twist on a classic snack. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy with friends and family. This post may contain affiliate links.
Why You'll Love This Butter Pecan Cheese Ball
The Butter Pecan Cheese Ball is more than just a treat—it's an experience. It's the kind of dessert that turns ordinary gatherings into memorable events. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want a fun treat for family night, this cheese ball is the perfect choice.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor
- Perfect for Entertaining
- Easy to Make
- Customizable
- Impressive Presentation
Ingredients You'll Need
- Cream Cheese
- Butter
- Powdered Sugar
- Butter Pecan Cake Mix
- Pecan Pieces
- Red Gum Ball
- Jumbo Candy Eyes
- Chocolate Candy Melts
- Graham Crackers
How to Make Butter Pecan Cheese Ball
Spread the box cake mix on a cookie sheet and toast it at 350°F for 5 minutes to get rid of any bacteria. Let it cool down.
In a bowl, combine the cake mix, butter, powdered sugar, and cream cheese. Use a hand mixer to blend until it resembles cookie dough.
Put on food gloves or wrap your hands with plastic wrap. Roll the mixture into a ball and wrap it in plastic. Chill it in the fridge for one hour.
Unwrap and shape it into a firm ball.
Lay out pecans on a plate and roll the cheeseball in them until it's fully covered. Place it on a serving dish.
Add a gum ball and candy eyes to the front. Surround with graham crackers.
Heat the melting candies in the microwave for one minute, stirring after each interval until smooth.
Pour the melted candy into a piping bag and snip a small opening.
Draw antlers with the chocolate on parchment paper, making them thick. Let them harden.
Gently press the antlers into the top of the cheeseball.
Serve and enjoy this fun dessert!
Tips and Tricks
Creating a Butter Pecan Cheese Ball that's both delicious and eye-catching can be a breeze with a few helpful tips and tricks. Whether you're new to cheese balls or a seasoned pro, these insights will ensure your Reindeer Dessert Cheeseball steals the show at any gathering.
Chilling the Cheese Ball
Refrigeration is key to getting the best flavor and texture out of your Butter Pecan Cheese Ball. Once you've rolled the mixture into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures a firm texture that's perfect for spreading. Chilling for at least an hour is a must.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering what pairs best with your cheese ball? Here are a few tasty options to consider:
- Crackers: Classic and reliable. Go for something sturdy, like graham crackers, to handle the thick, creamy texture.
- Fruits: Add a sweet twist with sliced apples or grapes. Their freshness balances the rich cheese ball flavors.
- Breadsticks or Pretzels: These provide a salty crunch that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cheese ball.
Variations and Substitutions
If you want to switch things up or add a personal touch, there are plenty of variations to consider:
- Chocolate Chips: Incorporate mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Dried Fruits: Mix in some chopped dried cranberries or cherries for a festive touch.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to complement the pecan flavor.
Nut-Free Options
For those allergic to nuts or just not fans, you can still enjoy a delicious cheese ball without pecans.
- Crushed Pretzels: Swap pecans for pretzel bits to get that same satisfying crunch.
- Granola: For a slightly sweet twist, roll the cheese ball in plain or honey-flavored granola.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: These add a nutty texture without the actual nuts.
Vegan Alternatives
Plant-based friends need not miss out on this festive treat. Here's how you can make it vegan:
- Cream Cheese Substitute: Use a dairy-free cream cheese available at most grocery stores.
- Butter Alternative: Try vegan butter or margarine for that creamy texture.
- Vegan Cake Mix: Ensure the butter pecan cake mix is free of animal products. Alternatively, choose a vegan brownie mix for a chocolaty twist.
- Plant-Based Chocolate: Make sure to use vegan chocolate for antlers and decorations.
Flavor Variations
Want to spice things up a bit? You can easily add different flavors to keep your cheese ball interesting:
- Cinnamon Swirl: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to your mixture for a warm, spicy kick.
- Maple Essence: A splash of maple extract can transform your cheese ball into a festive fall delight.
- Dried Fruit Bits: Including chopped cranberries or apricots can offer a sweet and tangy burst in every bite.
Butter Pecan Cheese Ball FAQs
How long can I keep the cheese ball?
To keep your Butter Pecan Cheese Ball fresh, it's essential to store it properly. Once you've made your cheese ball, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just make sure it's wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any unwanted fridge odors.
What can I serve with it?
Pairing your Butter Pecan Cheese Ball with the right foods and drinks can make your dessert spread shine! Here are a few complementary options to consider:
- Graham Crackers: Their sweet crunch pairs perfectly with the creamy texture.
- Apple Slices: Crisp and refreshing, apple slices add a nice contrast.
- Pretzels: If you're craving something salty, pretzels offer a delightful combination of flavors.
- Roasted Nuts: Enhance the nutty taste with some extra roasted pecans or almonds.
- Hot Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage complements the rich, creamy sweetness wonderfully.
More Cheese Ball Recipes Like Reindeer Dessert Cheeseball
- The Grinch Cheese Ball That You Absolutely Won't Loathe Entirely
- Ghost Cheeseball Recipe That Will Vanish Like Magic
- Win Game Day with These Spicy Mini Football Cheese Balls
- The Santa Cheesecake Ball Everyone Needs to Make
Butter Pecan Cheese Ball
Try our butter pecan cheese ball recipe for a delightful twist on a classic snack. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz.) packages of Cream Cheese
- ½ a stick of Butter
- ½ cup of Powdered Sugar
- 2 cups of Butter Pecan Cake Mix
- 2 cups of Pecan Pieces
- 1 Red Gum Ball
- 2 large Candy Eyes
- 1 cup of Chocolate Candy Melts
- Graham Crackers (for dipping)
Instructions
1.Start by toasting your box cake mix on a cookie sheet, for 5 minutes at 350°F. Let cool. This kills any bacteria.
2.To a bowl add your cake mix, butter, powdered sugar and cream cheese. Mix with a hand mixer until it is well combined and the consistency of cookie dough.
3.Use food gloves or plastic wrap over your hands and roll into a ball. Wrap the ball with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour.
4.Unwrap, and make sure it’s shaped and packed tightly in a ball.
5.Pour your pecans out on a plate and roll the cheeseball in the pecans. Make sure the entire ball is well coated and put on a serving plate.
6.To the front of your cheeseball, add the gum ball and candy eyes, surround with graham crackers.
7.Next place your melting candies in the microwave for one minute, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
8.Pour into a piping bag and cut off a small tip.
9.Draw antlers with the chocolate on a piece of parchment paper. Make sure they are thick. Let them set until hard.
10.Press gently into the top of your cheeseball.
11.Serve and enjoy this adorable dessert!
Notes
Also need:
- Plastic Wrap
- Food Gloves or Additional Plastic Wrap
- Parchment Paper
- Piping Bag
Nutrition Information
Yield 8 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 769Total Fat 39gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 23gCholesterol 38mgSodium 672mgCarbohydrates 98gFiber 5gSugar 56gProtein 10g
This nutritional information is for reference only. We are not responsible for these calculations.
