Pineapple Cheese Ball Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Party Favorite

🍍 Preparation

1. Drain the Pineapple Thoroughly

The key to a firm, well-structured cheese ball is ensuring the crushed pineapple is thoroughly drained. Place it in a fine-mesh strainer and press gently with the back of a spoon to remove as much liquid as possible. Alternatively, you can wrap the pineapple in a paper towel and squeeze out the excess moisture.

This step prevents the cheese ball from becoming soggy or too soft.

2. Mix the Cheese Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and beat with a hand mixer (or mix with a sturdy spatula) until smooth and creamy.

Add the drained pineapple, cheddar cheese, red bell pepper, green onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.

The mixture should be thick, slightly chunky, and hold together when pressed.

3. Shape the Cheese Ball

Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Gather the plastic around the mixture and use your hands to shape it into a round ball.

Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight if possible). Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the cheese ball time to firm up for easy rolling.

4. Prepare the Nut Coating

While the cheese ball chills, toast the pecans (optional but highly recommended for flavor and crunch).

To toast: Place chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 4–5 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate to cool completely.

Just before serving, spread the cooled pecans on a flat plate. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it gently over the pecans, pressing lightly so they adhere evenly to the surface.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Place your beautifully coated Pineapple Cheese Ball on a serving platter and surround it with your favorite dippers—crackers, toasted baguette slices, or crisp veggies.

If desired, garnish the top with a few pineapple tidbits or a sprig of parsley for a festive touch.

💡 Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Cheese Ball

• Soft cream cheese = smooth texture: Make sure it’s fully softened before mixing to prevent lumps.

• Drain well: Excess pineapple juice can make the cheese ball too loose to hold its shape.

• For a tropical twist: Add a tablespoon of shredded coconut or a few finely diced maraschino cherries for sweetness and color.

• Make ahead: You can prepare the cheese ball up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the fridge (uncoated) and roll it in pecans just before serving.

• Nut-free option: Roll the cheese ball in crushed pretzels, crispy bacon bits, or finely chopped fresh herbs instead of nuts.

• Serving temperature: For the best texture, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving—just enough to soften slightly for easy spreading.

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