Creamy, herby Boursin cheese rolled in crunchy pecans and juicy pomegranate arils—this festive cheese ball comes together in minutes and always steals the show.

When it comes to holiday hosting, I’m all about recipes that look impressive without taking over the kitchen. This Boursin pomegranate cheese ball checks every box: minimal prep, big flavor, and a beautiful centerpiece for your appetizer board.

The creamy shallot-and-chive Boursin pairs perfectly with the sweet pop of pomegranate and the crunch of candied pecans. It’s rich, fresh, and just the right amount of indulgent—exactly what you want for gatherings, Friendsgiving, or Christmas Eve snacking.

When it comes to easy holiday appetizers, this cheese ball is always one of the first things to disappear.

Why You’ll Love This Cheese Ball

No cooking required – just mix, chill, and roll
Holiday-perfect presentation with jewel-toned pomegranate
Make-ahead friendly for stress-free hosting
Crowd-pleasing flavors that feel elevated but familiar
Perfect for holiday entertaining recipes when you want something festive without the stress.

Ingredients

Cheese Ball Base

2 (5.2-oz) rounds Boursin Shallot & Chive cheese, softened
¼ cup white sharp cheddar, very finely shredded (optional, for structure)
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Coating

½ cup pomegranate arils, patted dry
½ cup candied or honey-roasted pecans, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, finely minced
Optional: pinch of flaky sea salt

For Serving

Crackers, crostini, or seeded flatbread

How to Make a Boursin Pomegranate Cheese Ball

Mix the cheese base
In a medium bowl, mash the Boursin cheese until smooth. If using, fold in the finely shredded cheddar and a pinch of black pepper.
Chill briefly
Scoop the mixture onto plastic wrap, shape into a ball, and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until slightly firm but still spreadable.
Prepare the coating
On a plate, gently combine the chopped pecans and minced chives. Keep pomegranate arils separate for best texture.
Coat the cheese ball
Roll the chilled cheese ball in the pecan mixture first, pressing gently so it adheres. Then press the pomegranate arils mostly on the top and sides for a clean, polished look.
Finish and serve
Sprinkle lightly with flaky salt if desired. Transfer to a serving board and add crackers or crostini.

Tips for the Best Results

Pat the pomegranate dry to prevent excess moisture.
Press pomegranate on top instead of fully rolling—it photographs beautifully and stays put.
For a softer texture, skip the cheddar; for a firmer shape, keep it in.
Make the cheese ball base up to 24 hours ahead and coat just before serving.

What to Serve With a Boursin Cheese Ball

This cheese ball pairs perfectly with crackers, crostini, and other cheese board ideas for effortless entertaining.

Neutral crackers (water crackers, wheat rounds)
Toasted baguette slices
Seeded flatbread or crispbread
A simple charcuterie board with grapes and olives

Make It Your Own

Swap pecans for toasted walnuts or pistachios
Add a drizzle of honey to the cheese base for subtle sweetness
Try Boursin Basil & Chive for a fresher, greener flavor profile

Hosting doesn’t need to be complicated.

This Boursin pomegranate cheese ball is proof that simple ingredients—done well—can still feel special. If you’re building out a menu, this also fits right in with other no-bake party appetizers that keep hosting simple.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how you serve it.