There’s something magical about the perfect appetizer—a dish that’s both delicious and effortless to prepare. The Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is just that. It’s an easy recipe that bursts with flavor and is guaranteed to be the star of any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday party, potluck, or casual get-together, this appetizer brings a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy to the table.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Any Occasion: It’s an ideal appetizer that suits both casual and formal events.
• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and steps, this cheese ball is foolproof.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese, sweet pineapple, and crunchy pecans is irresistible.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and save time on the day of your event.

Ingredients for Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering appetizer:

Ingredient	Quantity
Cream cheese	2 packages (8 oz each), softened
Crushed pineapple	1 cup, well drained
Bell pepper	½ cup, finely chopped
Green onions	⅓ cup, finely chopped
Seasoned salt	1 teaspoon
Pecans, chopped	1 cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Start by softening the cream cheese to make it easier to mix. Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

2. Mix the Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crushed pineapple, finely chopped bell pepper, green onions, and seasoned salt. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.

3. Form the Cheese Ball

• Use your hands to shape the mixture into a ball. To prevent sticking, lightly oil your hands with cooking spray or wear disposable gloves.

4. Chill the Cheese Ball

• Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step helps it firm up, making it easier to handle and coat.

5. Coat with Pecans

• Spread the chopped pecans on a plate. Roll the chilled cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to ensure they adhere evenly.

6. Serve

• Place the cheese ball on a serving dish surrounded by crackers, sliced baguettes, or fresh veggies. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Cheese Ball

1. Drain the Pineapple Thoroughly

• Excess moisture can make the cheese ball too soft and difficult to shape. Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to ensure it’s well-drained.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Opt for fresh bell peppers and green onions to enhance the flavor and texture.

3. Customize the Coating

• While pecans are traditional, you can experiment with other coatings like crushed almonds, walnuts, or even shredded coconut.

4. Chill for Best Results

• Don’t skip the chilling step. It helps the flavors meld together and makes the cheese ball easier to handle.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (approx.)
Calories	180
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	6g
Protein	3g
Sodium	240mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used.)

FAQs About Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cheese ball up to two days in advance. Just keep it wrapped in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze the cheese ball?

While it’s possible to freeze the cheese ball, the texture might change slightly. If you choose to freeze it, do so before coating it with pecans and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding the pecan coating.

3. What’s the best way to serve this appetizer?

Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguettes, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.

4. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or even crushed pistachios make great alternatives.

5. How do I prevent the cheese ball from sticking to my hands?

Lightly oil your hands with cooking spray or wear disposable gloves when shaping the cheese ball.

6. Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and check that your other ingredients are also dairy-free.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

The Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is more than just a recipe; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its creamy texture, sweet and savory flavor, and crunchy coating make it the highlight of any party spread. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, so you can focus on enjoying the occasion instead of stressing in the kitchen.

Ready to Make Your Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball?

Gather your ingredients and try this easy recipe today! Whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or a casual get-together, this appetizer is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time.

Explore More Party Appetizer Recipes for additional ideas to elevate your next gathering!

Print