Description
This Pineapple Cheese Ball combines tangy cream cheese, crushed pineapple, savory seasonings, and a hint of sweetness, all rolled in crunchy nuts and fresh chives for a show-stopping presentation. It’s creamy, zesty, and irresistibly spreadable on crackers or veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Coating
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- Optional: 1 tablespoon parsley or extra green onion for garnish
Instructions
1. Mix the Cheese Ball
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, pineapple, cheddar, red bell pepper, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
2. Shape and Chill
- Scoop mixture onto plastic wrap and form into a ball.
- Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to firm up.
3. Prepare the Coating
- On a plate, combine chopped nuts and chives.
4. Roll and Serve
- Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and roll it in the nut-chive mixture, pressing gently to coat.
- Place on a serving dish and garnish as desired.
- Serve with crackers, pretzels, or sliced vegetables.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Can be made up to 3 days in advance; coat just before serving for best texture
- Spice It Up: Add 1–2 teaspoons of minced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and skip cheddar or use plant-based alternatives
- Mini Balls: Make bite-sized versions for individual servings or party trays
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook / Chilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg