This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser creamy, tangy, and just a little sweet. With sharp cheddar, crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans, it’s the perfect make-ahead appetizer for holidays, parties, or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup additional pecans for rolling
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crushed pineapple, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, blend everything until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a ball using your hands or a rubber spatula.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, until firm.
- Once chilled, unwrap and roll the cheese ball in the additional chopped pecans, coating it evenly on all sides.
- Place on a serving platter and serve with crackers or fresh-cut veggies.
Variation
- Spicy Kick Cheese Ball: Add 1–2 tablespoons of finely diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. The mild heat plays perfectly against the sweetness of the pineapple and the richness of the cheese, giving it a zesty upgrade that’s great for spice lovers.
- Herb Garden Cheese Ball: Mix in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives. These bright, fresh herbs add an aromatic depth and turn the cheese ball into a more elegant appetizer especially lovely for spring and summer gatherings.
- Holiday Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: Fold in ¼ cup of dried cranberries along with the pecans. The tart-sweet flavor from the cranberries brings a festive touch, making it ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas platters.
Cooking Notes
- Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: After draining the crushed pineapple, give it a firm press with a spoon or pat it dry with paper towels. Any extra liquid will keep the cheese ball from setting properly and may cause it to become runny.
- Soften the Cream Cheese Fully: Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free texture and makes blending much easier.
- Refrigeration is Key: Don’t skip the chilling time 30 minutes (or more) in the fridge helps the flavors meld and allows the cheese ball to firm up enough to shape and slice without falling apart.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Assorted Crackers or Pretzel Chips: The slight crunch and saltiness of crackers or pretzel chips contrast beautifully with the creamy, tangy cheese ball. Offer a variety like wheat, multigrain, or buttery rounds for different textures.
- Pair with Fresh-Cut Veggies: Cucumber slices, celery sticks, or bell pepper strips make a crisp, fresh, and low-carb alternative to crackers. They also add color to your serving platter.
- Turn it Into Mini Cheese Ball Bites: For parties or potlucks, divide the mixture into small portions, roll into bite-sized balls, coat with pecans, and spear each with a toothpick. It’s a fun, portable twist that’s easy for guests to grab and go.
Tips
- Make It Ahead: This cheese ball can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored tightly wrapped in the fridge. In fact, it tastes even better after sitting overnight as the flavors have time to blend.
- Toast the Pecans: Lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes before mixing or rolling. This enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch.
- Customize to Taste: Don’t be afraid to experiment swap cheddar for pepper jack, add a touch of smoked paprika, or use walnuts instead of pecans. This recipe is flexible and forgiving, making it a perfect base for personal touches.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chill time)
Nutritional Information (Per serving — approx. 10 servings)
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 260mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for prepping in advance. You can make it up to 2 days ahead and keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge. In fact, the flavors get even better after sitting overnight. - Can I freeze a cheese ball?
You can! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. For best texture, freeze it before rolling in the outer layer of pecans. - What can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or even crushed pretzels work as great alternatives. Just make sure whatever you use is finely chopped and adds a nice crunch. - How long does the cheese ball last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container or well-wrapped, it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to give it a quick look and smell before serving leftovers.
Conclusion
This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is more than just an appetizer it’s a little slice of comfort and nostalgia. Whether you’re sharing it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a snack with your favorite crackers, it’s a recipe that brings smiles every time. Simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and always delicious this one’s a keeper for your go-to party rotation.
Print
Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 cheese ball (serves about 8–10) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser creamy, tangy, and just a little sweet. With sharp cheddar, crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans, it’s the perfect make-ahead appetizer for holidays, parties, or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup additional pecans for rolling
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crushed pineapple, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, blend everything until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a ball using your hands or a rubber spatula.
- Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, until firm.
- Once chilled, unwrap and roll the cheese ball in the additional chopped pecans, coating it evenly on all sides.
- Place on a serving platter and serve with crackers or fresh-cut veggies.
Notes
- Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: After draining the crushed pineapple, give it a firm press with a spoon or pat it dry with paper towels. Any extra liquid will keep the cheese ball from setting properly and may cause it to become runny.
- Soften the Cream Cheese Fully: Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free texture and makes blending much easier.
- Refrigeration is Key: Don’t skip the chilling time—30 minutes (or more) in the fridge helps the flavors meld and allows the cheese ball to firm up enough to shape and slice without falling apart.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 cheese ball
- Calories: ~180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: cheese ball, holiday appetizer, retro recipes, pineapple cheese ball, make-ahead snacks, comfort food