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Cranberry Goat Cheese Ball with Gluten Free Crackers on wooden board

Cranberry Goat Cheese Ball with Gluten Free Crackers

Matteo
This festive Cranberry Goat Cheese Ball is creamy, tangy, crunchy, and completely gluten free. A beautiful centerpiece for fall gatherings, it's quick to make, customizable, and crowd-pleasing every time.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Gluten Free, Holiday, Tuscan-Inspired
Servings 8 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • spatula or spoon
  • plastic wrap
  • serving platter
  • gloves (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz goat cheese (soft)
  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 0.5 cup chopped dried cranberries
  • 0.5 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 2 tbsp chopped chives (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • 1 pinch sea salt
  • gluten-free crackers (for serving)
  • optional: sliced apples, cucumbers, or GF crostini

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, mix goat cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the cranberries and half of the chives.
  • Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
  • On a plate, mix remaining cranberries, pecans, and chives. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it gently in the coating until fully covered.
  • Place on a serving platter and surround with gluten-free crackers, veggie sticks, or apple slices. Chill again briefly before serving, if needed.

Notes

Soften cheeses before mixing for smooth texture. Use gloves to shape for easier handling. Make it up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate; roll in coating just before serving. Pair with hearty gluten-free crackers or apple slices for contrast.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 0.6mg
Keyword cranberry appetizer, easy cheese ball, gluten-free cheese appetizer, goat cheese ball, holiday appetizer
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