No Bake Cranberry Cheesecake Balls

Bite-sized and packed with creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, these no-bake cranberry cheesecake balls are the perfect festive treat. They’re simple to whip up, require minimal ingredients, and are a fantastic option for holidays or casual gatherings.

Chef’s Tips

• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives these cheesecake balls the rich, creamy texture you’re looking for. Low-fat versions may release water, making the mixture harder to work with.
• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to sit out and reach room temperature before blending. This ensures a smoother mixture that’s easier to handle.
• Quick Chill Tip: Don’t skip the chilling steps! They’re crucial for firming up the mixture and ensuring the balls hold their shape.
• Uniform Coating: Use a shallow bowl for the graham cracker crumbs to coat the balls evenly and efficiently.

Ingredients

• 150g cream cheese: Preferably full-fat for a creamy consistency.
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese base.
• 1 tsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
• 1 tsp lemon zest: Enhances the citrus flavor.
• A handful of dried cranberries: Provides tangy sweetness.
• Crushed graham crackers: For coating and added texture.

Substitutions

• Sugar Alternatives: Swap powdered sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol for a low-carb version.
• Graham Crackers: Use digestive biscuits, crushed Oreos (without filling), or even ground nuts for a unique twist.
• Dried Cranberries: Replace with dried blueberries, raspberries, or diced dried apricots for a different flavor profile.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Substitute with orange juice and zest for a sweeter citrus twist.

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: Add cream cheese, powdered sugar, and dried cranberries to a food processor. Process until well combined and smooth.
2. Add Citrus: Mix in the lemon juice and zest, ensuring they’re evenly incorporated.
3. Chill the Mixture: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and chill in the freezer for 20-30 minutes.
4. Roll into Balls: Remove the chilled mixture and, using your palms, roll it into bite-sized balls.
5. Coat the Balls: Roll the balls in crushed graham crackers until fully coated.
6. Final Chill: Arrange the coated balls on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for another 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the freezer and serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to eat.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These cranberry cheesecake balls can be made up to 5 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze these cheesecake balls?
Absolutely. Freeze the balls individually on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What other toppings can I use?
Try rolling the cheesecake balls in chopped nuts, desiccated coconut, or crushed freeze-dried fruits for variety.

Can I skip the graham cracker coating?
Yes, you can! Alternatively, drizzle the cheesecake balls with melted chocolate or roll them in finely crushed nuts for a decadent twist.

No-bake cranberry cheesecake balls are a delightful treat that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tart, and creamy. They’re incredibly easy to make, customizable, and a surefire hit for any occasion. Try these out, experiment with flavors, and watch them disappear off the tray!