Cranberry Pecan Cheese Truffles Recipe

Alright, friends, I have a little secret to share with you today — these Cranberry Pecan Cheese Truffles are basically bite-sized bursts of holiday cheer! Imagine creamy, tangy cream cheese meeting sweet, tart dried cranberries, all wrapped in crunchy toasted pecans. They’re like little festive hugs for your taste buds. I first came up with this recipe when I wanted something easy yet impressive to bring to a holiday party, and trust me, the crowd went nuts over them. Plus, they’re unbelievably simple to make, which is always a win in my book. Ready to impress your guests (or just treat yourself)? Let’s get to it!

Quick Facts

• Yield: Serves 20–24 truffles
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup finely chopped dried cranberries
• 1 cup finely chopped toasted pecans (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• Pinch of salt

How I Make It

Step 1:

Start by softening your cream cheese to room temperature—it’ll make mixing so much easier. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and creamy, either with a hand mixer or vigorous whisking if you’re feeling strong.

Step 2:

Next, fold in the chopped cranberries and toasted pecans. The cranberries add a pop of color and tang, while the pecans bring a cozy crunch. Make sure everything is well incorporated but don’t overmix—you want those lovely textures intact!

Step 3:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for about one hour—this helps the mixture firm up and makes rolling the truffles so much easier.

Step 4:

Once chilled, scoop out small spoonfuls (about a tablespoon each) and quickly roll them into balls with your hands. If the cheese is too sticky, wet your hands with cold water to prevent sticking.

Step 5:

Roll each ball in additional finely chopped pecans for that gorgeous, nutty coating. Press them gently so the nuts stick well but don’t squash your truffle!

Step 6:

Place your finished truffles on a parchment-lined tray and chill for another 15–20 minutes to set. Then, they’re ready to serve or store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Variations & Tips

• Swap dried cranberries for chopped dried cherries or apricots for a new twist.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese for a warm spiced note.
• If you want a sweeter truffle, increase powdered sugar by 1 tablespoon.
• For easier rolling, chill the mixture overnight.
• Use pecan halves to garnish the top of each truffle for a fancy look.
• Gluten-free and keto-friendly as is—perfect for special diets!

How I Like to Serve It

These truffles are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a charming party appetizer. They also make adorable hostess gifts when wrapped in colorful cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. During winter, pair them with a hot cup of mulled wine or spiced cider for a cozy treat.

Notes

• Store leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If they become too firm after chilling, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Closing: These Cranberry Pecan Cheese Truffles always come through with their creamy, crunchy, and fruity magic—guaranteed to brighten any snack table with minimal hassle.

Lina

Hi, I’m Lina, the creator of Lina Easy Recipes.Cooking has always been my passion, and I love sharing simple, homemade dishes that anyone can prepare.