This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is the ultimate party appetizer! Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, it’s packed with crushed pineapple, green peppers, green onions, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for holiday gatherings, game day, or any occasion, this cheese ball is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and savory: The perfect balance of flavors.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Crowd-pleaser: Always a hit at parties and gatherings.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it the night before for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, well drained
- ½ cup chopped green pepper
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans, divided
- Assorted crackers (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth. Add the well-drained crushed pineapple, chopped green pepper, green onions, lemon-pepper seasoning, and seasoned salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Incorporate Pecans
Gently fold in ½ cup of the chopped pecans into the cheese mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
3. Shape the Cheese Ball
Using your hands or a spatula, form the cheese mixture into a ball shape. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors meld and the cheese firm up.
4. Coat with Pecans
Before serving, spread the remaining 1 ½ cups of chopped pecans on a flat surface. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the pecans, pressing gently to adhere the nuts to the cheese.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Place the pecan-coated cheese ball on a serving platter. Surround it with an assortment of crackers and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Drain the Pineapple Well: Excess moisture can make the cheese ball too soft. Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This makes it easier to mix and ensures a smooth texture.
- Customize the Shape: Instead of a ball, shape the cheese mixture into a log or festive shapes like a pumpkin or snowman for holidays.
- Add a Sweet Touch: Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with brown sugar for extra sweetness.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for extra flavor.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute pecans with crushed pretzels, crackers, or sunflower seeds.
- Herbaceous Touch: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is perfect for:
- Holiday Parties: A festive addition to your Christmas or Thanksgiving spread.
- Game Day: Serve with crackers, veggie sticks, or pretzels for a crowd-pleasing snack.
- Brunch: Pair with bagels, toast, or fresh fruit for a sweet and savory treat.
- Gifting: Package it in a cute box or jar for a homemade gift.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store the cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the uncoated cheese ball for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and coat with pecans before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Just make sure to drain it well and chop it finely.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews work well as substitutes.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is the ultimate party appetizer—creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet with a satisfying crunch from the pecans. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always a hit with guests. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, it’s sure to impress.
Let’s Make It Together!
I’d love to hear how your Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball turns out! Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media with #LivelyDish. Happy cooking! 🍍✨