Description
This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet appetizer that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining softened cream cheese with sweet crushed pineapple, crunchy pecans, and a hint of garlic and Worcestershire sauce, this cheese ball offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. It is easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and pairs wonderfully with crackers, pretzels, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 cup pecans (chopped, plus additional 1/2 cup for rolling)
- 1/2 cup green onions (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and salt.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until the mixture is well combined and creamy, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spoon the mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap and shape it into a ball using your hands or spatula.
- Refrigerate to Firm Up: Wrap the plastic wrap tightly around the cheese ball and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the cheese ball becomes firm and holds its shape.
- Unwrap and Roll in Pecans: Once the cheese ball is firm, remove it from the refrigerator and unwrap it carefully. Roll the cheese ball in the additional chopped pecans, gently pressing them into the surface to help them stick.
- Serve: Transfer the finished cheese ball to a serving platter. Serve chilled with crackers, pretzels, or fresh fruit for dipping.
Notes
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid a watery cheese ball.
- For added flavor, you can toast the pecans lightly before chopping.
- The cheese ball can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- If you prefer a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapenos.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- This recipe can be made gluten free by serving with gluten free crackers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: pineapple cheese ball, pecan cheese ball, appetizer recipe, party appetizers, cream cheese ball, easy cheese ball
