No-Bake Cranberry Feta Nut Balls Recipe
These No-Bake Cranberry Feta Nut Balls are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, offering an irresistible treat that bursts with flavor in every bite. Imagine the creamy richness of feta cheese mingling with the bright zing of orange zest and the delightful crunch of pistachios, all wrapped around a luscious ball of cream cheese. These indulgent little bites make for a nostalgic snack that takes just minutes to whip up, making them perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in. Plus, the fact that they require no baking means you can spend more time enjoying them than preparing them!
Whether you’re preparing for a party or just treating yourself, these cranberry feta nut balls will quickly become a go-to recipe because they’re not only quick and easy, but they’re also kid-friendly and will bring smiles all around.
Have You Ever Been in the Mood for a Snack That’s Both Savory and Sweet?
When was the last time you craved something that perfectly balanced flavors without overwhelming your taste buds? Picture this: an afternoon snack that combines the tanginess of cranberries with the creaminess of cheese and a hint of citrus – a joyful dance of textures and tastes.
With the hectic nature of modern life, don’t you deserve a treat that satisfies both your cravings and your hectic schedule? Dive into a world of flavor where no-baking means maximum pleasure.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Preparation: This recipe only requires mixing a few ingredients together and rolling them into balls. No complicated steps or lengthy processes here!
Healthy Indulgence: Boasting ingredients like nuts and dried cranberries, these nut balls offer a nutritious boost while still being a delightful treat.
Crowd-Pleaser: These no-bake treats are a hit at gatherings. Serve them at brunches, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers, and watch them disappear!
Minimal Ingredients: With only a handful of readily available ingredients, whipping up a batch between meals is as effortless as it gets.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 cups feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 Tbsp orange zest, freshly grated
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup shelled roasted pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crushed Blue Diamond Original Nut-Thins, plus more whole crackers for serving
- 1/4 cup packed fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
These ingredients create a symphony of flavor that is sure to captivate your taste buds. The tangy feta cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet cranberries, while the crunch of pistachios elevates the whole experience. Add the delightful crunch of Blue Diamond Original Nut-Thins, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser on your hands that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!
Timing
Fast and indulgent, this recipe allows you to whip up a tray of these heavenly treats in less than half an hour! Although you’ll want to chill them for an hour to achieve the best texture, the active prep time is minimal, making this a quick and satisfying option.
Alternatively, if you are looking to indulge in a more luxurious treat, consider savoring each creamy bite slowly, letting the flavors unfold as they melt in your mouth.
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Creamy Base
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the cream cheese, crumbled feta, orange zest, olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Beat the mixture on medium speed until everything is fully integrated and slightly fluffy—about three glorious minutes of creamy transformation.
Step 2: Chill Out
Wrap or cover the mixing bowl and transfer it to the refrigerator for an hour. Allowing the balls to chill enhances their taste and helps them set, making your creation even more rewarding.
Step 3: Crunchy Coating
Meanwhile, combine the chopped cranberries, pistachios, crushed Blue Diamond Original Nut-Thins, and parsley in a shallow bowl. Their vibrant colors and textures create a delightful visual treat.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Remove the chilled cheese mixture from the refrigerator and roll it into 20 to 24 bite-sized balls, roughly 1 1/2 tablespoons each.
Step 5: Coat the Balls
Gently roll each cheese ball in the cranberry mixture, lightly pressing to coat every inch with those amazing flavors.
Step 6: Serve
For serving, place each flavored cheese ball on top of a Blue Diamond Original Nut-Thins cracker, or present them alongside a platter filled with crackers for guests to enjoy.
Let the vivid colors and mouthwatering aromas tantalize your senses as you prepare to indulge!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of these delightful no-bake cranberry feta nut balls clocks in at around 150 calories, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Nutrient-dense yet delicious, you can enjoy these bites without the added worry of compromising your dietary goals. Though they have the perfect balance of savory flavors, remember that they are a treat to be enjoyed occasionally—perfect for parties or whenever you need a quick and satisfying snack.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to make healthier swaps, consider these options:
Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese and feta with nut-based cheeses to create a vegan-friendly delight.
Low-Sugar: Instead of traditional dried cranberries, opt for unsweetened dried cranberries, or use fresh cranberries for an even tangier experience.
Nut Choices: For those with nut allergies, feel free to swap in seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, that can provide a delightful crunch without compromising safety.
Serving Suggestions
These no-bake cranberry feta nut balls make for an incredible appetizer at holiday parties or family gatherings. Pair them with a side of colorful fresh vegetables or serve them alongside your favorite dips for added zest.
Feeling a bit indulgent? Try incorporating them into a cheeseboard and serve with a glass of your favorite wine for a sophisticated touch. They also make for a fabulous afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee, bringing joy to those quiet moments at home.
Common Mistakes
Avoid the pitfalls of making cranberry feta nut balls by steering clear of these common mistakes:
Overmixing the Ingredients: Ensure you mix the ingredients until just combined to keep the texture creamy, not overly airy.
Insufficient Chilling Time: Allow the cheese mixture to chill adequately to create bites that hold their shape.
Skipping the Coating: The crunch of the cranberry, nuts, and crushed crackers is essential to the overall experience, so don’t skip that flavorful coating!
Storing Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can prepare the cheese mixture and shape it into balls, then freeze them for up to a month. For fresh servings, just thaw them in the refrigerator the night before serving!
Tempt Readers to Make It ASAP
These No-Bake Cranberry Feta Nut Balls are irresistibly easy and bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures will have everyone reaching for seconds. So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch today and indulge in a little culinary delight that brings joy to any occasion!
FAQs
1. Can I make these nut balls in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator. Just roll them into balls and coat them right before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any uneaten cheese balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of parsley?
Absolutely! Fresh basil or even chives can add a unique flavor twist to your cheese balls.
4. Are these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free crackers, they can be made gluten-free.
5. Can I use different nuts?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different nuts! Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts would all work fantastically in these tasty bites.
Get started on your delicious journey into flavor explosion with these No-Bake Cranberry Feta Nut Balls today!
Print
No-Bake Cranberry Feta Nut Balls
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irresistible no-bake treats combining the savory richness of feta with the sweet zing of cranberries and the crunch of pistachios.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 cups feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 Tbsp orange zest, freshly grated
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup shelled roasted pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crushed Blue Diamond Original Nut-Thins, plus more whole crackers for serving
- 1/4 cup packed fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, crumbled feta, orange zest, olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Beat until integrated and fluffy.
- Wrap and refrigerate the mixture for an hour to enhance taste and set.
- Mix chopped cranberries, pistachios, crushed Nut-Thins, and parsley in a shallow bowl.
- Roll the chilled cheese mixture into 20 to 24 bite-sized balls.
- Gently roll each ball in the cranberry mixture to coat.
- Serve on Blue Diamond Original Nut-Thins or on a platter with crackers.
Notes
These treats are perfect for parties and can be prepared in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
