These Goat Cheese Balls Rolled in Pistachio & Cranberry are bite-sized, no-cook appetizers made with creamy goat cheese, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy pistachios. A perfect make-ahead party snack or cheese board addition that’s elegant, festive, and full of flavor.
In a medium bowl, mix goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, black pepper, and orange zest until smooth and well combined.
Chill for 15 minutes if the mixture is too soft to roll.
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
Set on a parchment-lined tray.
Combine chopped pistachios, cranberries, and herbs on a plate.
Roll each cheese ball in the mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Chill until ready to serve. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before enjoying.
Serve with toothpicks, skewers, or on a platter with crackers or endive leaves.
Wine:
Sparkling wine (Brut Rosé or Prosecco)
Sauvignon Blanc or Chenin Blanc
Pinot Noir (chilled)
Cocktails:
Cranberry gin fizz
Sparkling honey bourbon punch
Rosemary gin & tonic
Other Elegant Bites:
Shaved Pear & Gorgonzola Crostini
Zucchini Roll-Ups with Herbed Ricotta
Parmesan Truffle Popcorn Cones
Make-ahead: Balls can be made and coated up to 2 days ahead. Keep covered in fridge.
Serving style: Serve in mini muffin liners, on skewers, or piled artfully on a cheeseboard.
Flavor twist: Add a touch of cinnamon or crushed red pepper for sweet heat. You can also mix chopped cranberries/pistachios into the cheese.
Nut allergy? Swap pistachios for toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
20 servings