In a bowl, combine all the ingredients, except the nuts and crackers. Beat until well combined. Cover and chill the mixture for 3 to 4 hours.
Shape mixture into a ball or log. Roll in pecans to coat. Store, covered, in the refrigerator. Serve with crackers. Makes 1 cheese ball.
To toast the pecans for the outside coating, spread the nuts evenly in a shallow baking pan. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 5 to 10 minutes or until the pecans are a light golden brown, stirring them once or twice.