Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat all of the cream cheese with the 1/4 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter and 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract until smooth and well combined (use an electric mixer on medium speed or a sturdy spatula).
- Add the 3/4 cup powdered sugar and 1/4 cup light brown sugar to the bowl; beat on low speed (or mix thoroughly) until the sugars are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth, scraping down the bowl as needed.
- Measure out and set aside 3/4 cup of the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 3/4 cup of the chopped pecans for the coating (this is half of each 1 1/2‑cup amount). Stir the remaining 3/4 cup chocolate chips and 3/4 cup chopped pecans into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to shape.
- Remove the chilled mixture, shape it into a ball using your hands or plastic wrap to help form a smooth surface, then wrap the ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 more hour.
- Unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving plate. Carefully roll or press the outside of the cheese ball into the reserved 3/4 cup chocolate chips and 3/4 cup chopped pecans so it is evenly coated. Serve with Nilla wafers, graham crackers, or other cookies.
Notes
Avoid overbeating the cream cheese.It’s important that we don’t mix too much air into it, as it will become difficult to form into a ball if it’s too airy.
Decorate it:It can be fun to decorate this cheeseball to look like a turkey for Thanksgiving! You can also add festive-colored chocolate chips, sprinkles, or M&Ms to theme this dessert dip for any occasion.
To Make Ahead:You can store this dessert well wrapped, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To Store:Leftovers can also be stored for up to 5 days from the time the cheese ball is made.
To Freeze:Cream cheese balls like this one can be frozen, very well wrapped, for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before decorating or serving.
Decorate it:It can be fun to decorate this cheeseball to look like a turkey for Thanksgiving! You can also add festive-colored chocolate chips, sprinkles, or M&Ms to theme this dessert dip for any occasion.
To Make Ahead:You can store this dessert well wrapped, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To Store:Leftovers can also be stored for up to 5 days from the time the cheese ball is made.
To Freeze:Cream cheese balls like this one can be frozen, very well wrapped, for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before decorating or serving.