Description
A creamy, spreadable appetizer inspired by pecan pie flavors, blending cream cheese, maple syrup, and crunchy pecans for a perfect no-bake party treat.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for rolling)
Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
For serving: graham crackers, pretzels, or apple slices
Instructions
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Mix until fully combined.
- Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans evenly throughout the mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours to firm up.
- Once chilled, roll the cheese ball in extra chopped pecans until fully coated.
- Serve with graham crackers, pretzels, or apple slices for dipping.
Notes
For a boozy twist, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the mixture.
Try honey instead of maple syrup for different sweetness.
Mix in mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a festive touch.
Use vegan cream cheese and butter alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Roll the cheese ball in crushed graham crackers or toffee bits for texture variation.
Store tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of cheese ball
- Calories: Approx. 190 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
