Use What You Have
Pecan Pie Cheese Ball Recipe
This sweet, Southern-inspired cheese ball channels all the best flavors of a classic pecan pie from the crunchy pecan coating to the gooey, caramel center. The cream cheese base is enriched with vanilla pudding mix to create a smooth, almost cookie dough-like texture thats perfect for scooping with apple slices, graham crackers, or pretzel chips. This sweet, decadent spin on a traditionally savory appetizer is sure to impress every guest at your holiday table. The cheese ball on its own is delicious, but who doesnt love a caramel center! said recipe cross-tester Amanda Holstein.
Ingredients
- 2 packages caramel dip singles (such as Marzetti), plus more for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped toasted pecans
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 (3.2 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2/3 cup finely chopped pecans, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Apple slices, graham crackers, and pretzel chips for dipping
Directions
Step 1: Gather all ingredients.
Step 2: In a small bowl, stir together caramel dip and 1 tablespoon of the finely chopped pecans. Cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Step 3: Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and butter on high speed until smooth, about 1 minute. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 4: Add powdered sugar and brown sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined, about 5 seconds. Increase speed to medium-high and continue beating for another 30 seconds, until the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Add the vanilla pudding mix, lemon juice, kosher salt, cinnamon, and 1/3 cup of the finely chopped pecans. Mix on low until just combined, about 10 seconds.
Step 6: Line the inside of a medium-sized bowl with plastic wrap, leaving a 2-inch overhang. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the prepared bowl, pressing it down firmly. Make a well in the center of the mixture, about 3 inches wide and 2 inches deep. Refrigerate uncovered until the mixture is firm, about 45 minutes.
Step 7: Once the cream cheese mixture has firmed up, spoon the caramel mixture into the well. Use the edges of the plastic wrap to help spread the cream cheese evenly over the caramel mixture, pressing the edges together to seal the ball with a caramel center.
Step 8: Unwrap the plastic wrap and smooth the outside of the cheese ball using clean fingers or the back of a spoon, making sure there are no cracks.
Step 9: Place the cheese ball on a new piece of plastic wrap and rewrap it, reforming it into a ball shape, about 5 inches in diameter. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 12 hours, until fully firm.
Step 10: Spread the remaining 1/3 cup of chopped pecans on a small plate. Unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the pecans to coat it completely.
Step 11: Transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter and drizzle with additional caramel dip. Serve with apple slices, graham crackers, pretzel chips, or other dippers of your choice.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | 324 |
| Total Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 59mg |
| Sodium | 290mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 23g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 21g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Vitamin C | 1mg |
| Calcium | 51mg |
| Iron | 0mg |
| Potassium | 104mg |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
The Sweet Origins of the Pecan Pie Cheese Ball
The Pecan Pie Cheese Ball is a modern twist on two classic Southern favorites: pecan pie and the traditional cheese ball. Cheese balls themselves date back to the early 20th century in the United States, often served as festive appetizers during holiday gatherings. This version emerged as home cooks experimented with combining sweet and savory elements, creating a dessert that maintains the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie while offering the creamy texture and playful presentation of a cheese ball.
Regional Characteristics
This dish is deeply rooted in Southern cuisine, particularly in the Southeastern United States, where pecans are abundant and pecan pie is a staple dessert. Unlike Northern adaptations that favor fruit-based fillings or simpler nut combinations, the Southern version emphasizes caramel, brown sugar, and toasted pecans, providing a deeply sweet and nutty profile. In addition, the use of cream cheese in the cheese ball reflects the regions penchant for blending creamy textures with bold, sugary flavors.
How It Differs from Similar Dishes
While it might seem similar to a traditional pecan pie or a standard cheese ball, the Pecan Pie Cheese Ball is unique in its structure and presentation. Traditional pecan pie is baked in a crust, whereas this cheese ball is chilled and served cold, making it more suitable as an appetizer or snack. Unlike classic cheese balls, which are typically savory with herbs, nuts, or spices, this dessert-style cheese ball incorporates a sweet caramel center, vanilla pudding, and powdered sugar, creating a rich, dessert-like experience rather than a savory bite.
Serving Traditions
Pecan Pie Cheese Balls are commonly served at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and parties, particularly during Thanksgiving and Christmas. They are often placed on a platter surrounded by dippers such as apple slices, graham crackers, and pretzel chips, allowing guests to scoop portions as desired. Their visually appealing presentation and unique sweet-savory combination make them a conversation starter and a crowd-pleaser at family and community events.
Fun Facts and Trivia
- The combination of caramel and cream cheese creates a texture reminiscent of cookie dough, which many find irresistible.
- Despite its dessert flavor, the cheese ball maintains the familiar round, spreadable shape of traditional savory cheese balls, highlighting the creative blending of culinary traditions.
- Some home cooks experiment with different nut coatings, like walnuts or almonds, to add regional flair or personalize the recipe.
- The recipes balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures demonstrates why Southern cuisine often emphasizes layers of flavor and mouthfeel.
- Originally popularized through online recipe sharing and family cookbooks, it now appears on many holiday menus across the U.S., sometimes as a centerpiece of dessert tables.
Overall, the Pecan Pie Cheese Ball represents a playful fusion of traditional Southern flavors and modern party presentation, bridging the gap between classic desserts and innovative appetizers.
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