Description
Creamy cheese ball “Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball” blends sweet and savory flavors for instant party success. Crunchy pecans and tangy pineapple create an irresistible appetizer you’ll want to share with friends at every gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup (56 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100 grams) pecans, finely chopped
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup (15 grams) green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh herbs (optional)
- Crackers or vegetable sticks for serving
Instructions
- Create a flavor-packed mixture by blending softened cream cheese with tangy crushed pineapple, sharp cheddar, zesty green onions, aromatic garlic powder, subtle onion powder, and a hint of black pepper until thoroughly incorporated.
- Dampen hands slightly to prevent sticking, then carefully mold the creamy mixture into a cohesive spherical shape, ensuring smooth and even texture.
- Generously coat the entire surface of the cheese ball with finely chopped pecans, gently pressing the nuts to create a crisp, textured exterior that adheres completely.
- Envelop the prepared cheese ball in plastic wrap, securing it tightly to maintain its shape and prevent moisture loss.
- Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for a minimum of two hours, allowing the flavors to intensify and the texture to become firm and well-integrated.
- When ready to serve, carefully unwrap the cheese ball and transfer to an elegant serving platter, optionally garnishing with delicate fresh herbs for visual appeal.
- Accompany the cheese ball with an assortment of crisp crackers or vibrant vegetable sticks, inviting guests to enjoy this delectable appetizer.
Notes
- Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the cheese ball soggy and losing its perfect shape.
- Toast pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra crunch to the cheese ball’s exterior.
- Switch to low-fat cream cheese for a healthier version without compromising the creamy texture and rich taste.
- Make the cheese ball ahead of time and store in the refrigerator up to 3 days, allowing flavors to develop and intensify for a more delicious appetizer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Rolling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg