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