Description
Bring a touch of tropical sunshine to your next gathering with this Sparkling Pineapple Pecan Party Cheese Ball! Creamy, tangy, and delightfully nutty, this appetizer combines the richness of cream cheese and sharp cheddar with the sweetness of pineapple and the crunch of toasted pecans. It’s a perfect centerpiece for any party platter refreshing, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make ahead of time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Additional pecans, for rolling
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Flavor: Stir in the crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
- Shape the Ball: Form the mixture into a firm ball, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the cheese ball is firm enough to handle.
- Coat and Serve: Roll the chilled cheese ball in additional chopped pecans to fully cover the surface. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crackers, fruit slices, or crisp veggies.
Notes
- Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture from softening the cheese mixture.
- Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving it enhances spreadability and flavor.
- This cheese ball can be made a day in advance; in fact, the flavors intensify as it chills!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Holiday Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American, Party Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: pineapple pecan cheese ball, party appetizer, holiday cheese ball, tropical cheese spread, retro cheese ball recipe, make-ahead appetizer