10 Delicious Dried Fruit Cheese Ball Recipes

Hungry for a snack that’s both sweet and savory? Look no further! Our roundup of 10 Delicious Dried Fruit Cheese Ball Recipes is here to inspire your next gathering or cozy night in. Perfect for home cooks across North America, these recipes blend creamy cheese with the natural sweetness of dried fruits for a treat that’s sure to delight. Keep reading to find your new favorite appetizer!

Savory Dried Apricot and Walnut Cheese Ball

Whenever I’m in need of a show-stopping appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, I turn to this Savory Dried Apricot and Walnut Cheese Ball. It’s a hit at every gathering, and the combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors always leaves guests asking for the recipe.

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp green onions, finely sliced
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
• For the coating:
  • 1/4 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup dried apricots, 1/4 cup walnuts, green onions, garlic powder, and onion powder until well blended. Tip: Letting the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes makes it easier to mix.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly wet your hands with water to make shaping easier.
3. On a plate, mix together the remaining 1/4 cup dried apricots and 1/4 cup walnuts for the coating.
4. Roll the cheese ball in the apricot and walnut mixture until fully coated. Tip: Press the coating gently into the cheese ball to ensure it sticks well.
5. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow it to firm up. Tip: For best flavor, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

Delightfully creamy with a perfect balance of sweet and savory, this cheese ball is fantastic spread on crackers or sliced baguettes. The crunch from the walnuts adds a wonderful texture contrast, making it a memorable appetizer for any occasion.

Sweet Cranberry and Almond Cheese Ball

This summer, I stumbled upon the perfect party appetizer that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the rich creaminess of cheese—all rolled into one delightful bite. Trust me, once you try this Sweet Cranberry and Almond Cheese Ball, it’ll become your go-to for gatherings.

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball:
  • 2 cups cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the coating:
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup almonds, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp honey

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother blend.
2. Mix the ingredients until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. This might take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer.
3. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands. Tip: Wetting your hands slightly can prevent the mixture from sticking.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the chopped cranberries, almonds, and honey until the fruits and nuts are evenly coated.
5. Roll the cheese ball in the cranberry and almond mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks evenly all around.
6. Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour before serving. Tip: Chilling helps the cheese ball firm up, making it easier to slice or spread.

Every bite of this cheese ball offers a creamy texture with a delightful crunch from the almonds, while the cranberries add a burst of sweetness. Serve it with crackers or apple slices for an extra touch of elegance.

Spicy Mango and Pecan Cheese Ball

How many times have you found yourself staring at your fridge, wondering what to whip up that’s both impressive and easy? That’s exactly where I was last weekend when I decided to experiment with a Spicy Mango and Pecan Cheese Ball. It turned out to be the hit of my summer gatherings, blending sweet, spicy, and creamy in every bite.

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball: 2 cups cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded), 1/4 cup mango (finely diced), 1 tbsp jalapeño (minced), 1 tsp lime zest
• For the coating: 1/2 cup pecans (chopped), 1/4 cup dried mango (finely chopped), 1/2 tsp chili powder

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, finely diced mango, minced jalapeño, and lime zest until well blended. Tip: Letting the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes makes it easier to mix.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands or a spatula. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly wet your hands with water to make shaping easier.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans, dried mango, and chili powder for the coating.
4. Roll the cheese ball in the coating mixture until fully covered. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
5. Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour before serving to allow it to firm up. Tip: Wrapping it in plastic wrap during this time helps maintain its shape.

Last but not least, the contrast between the creamy interior and the crunchy, spicy-sweet coating is nothing short of magical. Serve it with crackers or apple slices for an unexpected twist that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.

Tangy Pineapple and Macadamia Cheese Ball

First off, let me tell you, this Tangy Pineapple and Macadamia Cheese Ball is a game-changer for your next gathering. I stumbled upon this recipe during a summer potluck, and it’s been a staple in my entertaining arsenal ever since. The combination of sweet pineapple and crunchy macadamia nuts wrapped around creamy cheese is simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball:
  • 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
  • 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
• For the coating:
  • 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts, green onions, and garlic powder. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly wet your hands to make shaping easier.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts and chopped parsley for the coating.
4. Roll the cheese ball in the coating mixture until it’s fully covered. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
5. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld together.

Kick your cheese ball up a notch by serving it with an array of crackers or fresh vegetable sticks. The contrast between the creamy interior and the crunchy coating is a textural delight, while the tangy pineapple and rich macadamia nuts offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for those who love a sweet and savory combo!

Rich Fig and Hazelnut Cheese Ball

Yesterday, I stumbled upon the most delightful combination of flavors that I just had to share with you all. It’s a Rich Fig and Hazelnut Cheese Ball that’s perfect for your next gathering or even as a luxurious treat for yourself. The sweetness of the figs paired with the crunch of hazelnuts and the creaminess of the cheese is simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup dried figs, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted and finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• For coating:
  • 1/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted and finely chopped

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped figs, 1/4 cup hazelnuts, honey, and vanilla extract until well mixed. Tip: Letting the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes makes it easier to mix.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly wet your hands with water to make shaping easier.
3. Roll the cheese ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of chopped hazelnuts until fully coated. Tip: Toasting the hazelnuts beforehand enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch.
4. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow it to firm up. Tip: For best results, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Now, this Rich Fig and Hazelnut Cheese Ball is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The contrast between the creamy interior and the crunchy hazelnut coating is divine. Serve it with crackers or slices of pear for an elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress.

Zesty Orange and Pistachio Cheese Ball

Oh, the joy of discovering a recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! That’s exactly how I felt when I first whipped up this Zesty Orange and Pistachio Cheese Ball. It’s become my go-to for gatherings, and today, I’m sharing all the secrets to making it your own showstopper.

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball:
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tbsp orange zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
• For the coating:
  • 1/2 cup pistachios, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, orange zest, orange juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Tip: For the best texture, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
3. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly wet your hands to make shaping easier.
4. Tip: For a perfectly round cheese ball, place the mixture on a piece of plastic wrap, gather the edges, and twist to form a tight ball. Chill for 30 minutes to set the shape.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pistachios and parsley. Roll the chilled cheese ball in the mixture until fully coated.
6. Tip: For an extra crunch, toast the pistachios lightly before chopping.
7. Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Perfect for any occasion, this cheese ball boasts a creamy interior with a vibrant, crunchy exterior. Serve it with crackers or apple slices for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Decadent Cherry and Dark Chocolate Cheese Ball

Kicking off the holiday season, I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe that combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate and tart cherries into a show-stopping cheese ball. It’s become my go-to for potlucks, and trust me, it disappears faster than you can say ‘more please!’

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball:
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup dried cherries, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, finely chopped
• For the coating:
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
  • 1/4 cup dried cherries, finely chopped

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
2. Fold in the finely chopped dried cherries and dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Transfer the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape into a ball, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
4. Before serving, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
5. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
6. Sprinkle the remaining chopped dried cherries over the melted chocolate, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Return the cheese ball to the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set the chocolate before serving.

Best enjoyed with crisp crackers or slices of green apple, the contrast between the creamy cheese, crunchy coating, and bursts of cherry is simply irresistible. For an extra touch, serve alongside a glass of red wine to complement the dark chocolate’s richness.

Refreshing Lemon and Blueberry Cheese Ball

How many times have you reached for a snack and wished it was both indulgent and refreshing? That’s exactly why I fell in love with this Lemon and Blueberry Cheese Ball. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet, with a pop of color that makes it as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball:
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• For the coating:
  • 1/2 cup dried blueberries
  • 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
2. Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap.
3. Using the plastic wrap, shape the cheese mixture into a ball by lifting the edges of the wrap and twisting them together at the top. This helps to form a tight, round shape without getting your hands messy.
4. Chill the cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to handle.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the dried blueberries and crushed graham crackers.
6. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the ball in the blueberry and graham cracker mixture until it’s fully coated.
7. Chill the coated cheese ball for another 30 minutes before serving to allow the coating to set.

Now, the cheese ball is ready to serve! The texture is luxuriously creamy with a delightful crunch from the coating, and the flavor is a bright, tangy lemon perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the blueberries. Try serving it with crisp apple slices or buttery crackers for a contrast in textures that’ll have everyone coming back for more.

Exotic Papaya and Coconut Cheese Ball

Amidst the hustle of summer gatherings, I stumbled upon a recipe that’s as refreshing as it is unexpected—Exotic Papaya and Coconut Cheese Ball. It’s a delightful twist on the classic cheese ball, blending tropical flavors with creamy cheese for a dish that’s sure to be the talk of any party.

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup finely diced papaya
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For coating:
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup crushed macadamia nuts

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded coconut, diced papaya, honey, and vanilla extract until well blended. Tip: For easier mixing, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands or a spoon. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.
3. On a plate, mix together the additional shredded coconut and crushed macadamia nuts for the coating.
4. Roll the cheese ball in the coating mixture until fully covered. Tip: Gently press the coating onto the ball to ensure it sticks well.
5. Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour before serving to allow it to firm up. Tip: For best flavor, let it sit in the fridge overnight.

Diving into this cheese ball reveals a creamy interior speckled with juicy bits of papaya, all encased in a crunchy, nutty coating. Serve it with crackers or slices of fresh baguette for a stunning appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Classic Raisin and Walnut Cheese Ball

Back when I first stumbled upon the recipe for a Classic Raisin and Walnut Cheese Ball, it was during a cozy winter potluck that instantly won everyone over. I remember thinking how this simple yet elegant appetizer could bring such warmth and joy to the table, making it a staple in my holiday recipe collection ever since.

Ingredients

• For the cheese ball:
  • 2 cups cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
• For the coating:
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, raisins, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until well blended. Tip: Letting the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes makes it easier to mix.
2. Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly wet your hands to make shaping easier.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining 1/2 cup chopped walnuts and parsley for the coating.
4. Roll the cheese ball in the walnut and parsley mixture until fully coated. Tip: Press the coating gently to ensure it sticks well to the cheese ball.
5. Wrap the coated cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Tip: Chilling not only firms up the cheese ball but also enhances the flavors.

So there you have it, a Classic Raisin and Walnut Cheese Ball that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. The combination of creamy, tangy cheese with the sweet pops of raisins and the crunch of walnuts is simply irresistible. Serve it with crackers or apple slices for a sweet and savory treat that’s sure to impress.

Conclusion

Savory, sweet, and utterly irresistible, these 10 dried fruit cheese ball recipes are perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. We hope you’re inspired to whip up one (or more!) of these delightful treats. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite, and share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!