Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

A pineapple cheese ball crusted in crunchy pecans is a delightful party appetizer that’s both easy to prepare and big on flavor. This recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweet and tangy notes of pineapple, all balanced by the delightful crunch of veggies and chopped nuts.

It’s perfect for potlucks or a casual get-together. Plus, the cheese ball can be assembled ahead of time, giving you more time to focus on other aspects of your gathering. This recipe is a breeze to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients.

Pineapple Cheese Ball Ingredients

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• Cream cheese: Provides a rich, creamy base for the cheese ball, giving it a smooth texture. Make sure it’s thoroughly softened first, as this will make combining it with the other ingredients much easier.
• Crushed pineapple: Canned pineapple adds a sweet and tropical flavor without requiring any prep work. Drain the can well or it might make it harder to form your cheese ball.
• Green pepper and green onions: Chopped aromatic vegetables provide a fresh, crunchy texture and a subtle vegetal flavor to balance out the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Lemon-pepper seasoning: This spice blend adds lemony freshness alongside the flavor of ground black pepper.
• Chopped pecans: Chopped pecans, both folded into the cheese ball mixture and packed onto the exterior provide a nutty crunch to contrast the creamy base.
• Assorted crackers: Crunchy crackers complement the creamy cheese spread. Substitute sliced baguette or crostini for the crackers.

Directions

Step 1: Make the cheese mixture ahead

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In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the pineapple, green pepper, green onion, seasonings and 1/2 cup pecans.

Shape the cheese mixture into a ball. Wrap; refrigerate overnight.

Step 2: Finish it off

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Just before serving, roll the cheese ball in the remaining pecans. Serve with crackers.

Test Kitchen Tip: For the best flavor, toast the pecans first!

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Recipe Variations

• Experiment with different nuts: Swap pecans for other nuts like walnuts, almonds or macadamia for a different texture and flavor.
• Add some dried fruit: Stir in dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of tartness and a pleasant chew.
• Make minis: Divide the cheese ball mixture into smaller balls and spear them with pretzel rods as a bite-sized appetizer. Check out the method in our recipe for mini cheese balls.

How to Store Pineapple Cheese Ball

The best way to store any leftover pineapple cheese ball is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. Serve it with crackers or use it as a spread on bistro-style turkey sandwiches.

Can you make a pineapple cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, you can make a pineapple cheese ball ahead of time. In fact, you should! Our recipe has you do Step 1 a day or two in advance so that the flavors can meld together. Just wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.

Pineapple Cheese Ball Tips

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Help! My cheese ball is too soft!

If your cheese ball filling mixture is too soft, it may be because of the moisture from the pineapple. Work in grated cheese such as cheddar, Colby or Monterey Jack to help give it some structure and then chill it thoroughly.

Can I use canned pineapple chunks instead of crushed pineapple?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple chunks instead of crushed pineapple. However, you may need to chop them up a bit before adding them to the cheese ball mixture, or they can compromise the texture of the cheese ball.

Is there a vegan option for this cheese ball?

Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative.