It’s football season, and this Cranberry Cheese Ball would make a perfect halftime snack! This recipe is easy to make, easy to transport to your next party, and a guaranteed crowd pleaser. You can even make a Cranberry Cheese Ball ahead of time. This will keep in your refrigerator for several days. Alternatively, you can freeze it for several weeks. It will thaw nicely if left in the fridge for 24 hours.

Ingredients (Makes 1 large Cranberry Cheese Ball)

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons sour cream

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/3 cup dried cranberries

1/3 cup finely chopped scallions

1/3 cup finely chopped fennel (or substitute celery)

1/3 cup chopped nuts (hazelnuts and walnuts work well)

Directions

Combine all ingredients except chopped nuts; mix well. Shape into a ball (or a log shape, if you prefer). Roll in chopped nuts. Wrap Cranberry Cheese Ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving. To serve, allow Cranberry Cheese Ball to come to room temperature. Serve on a platter surrounded by crackers.