Impress your guests with our Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball, a delightful combination of creamy cheese, tangy pineapple, crunchy pecans, and savory seasonings. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for parties, gatherings, or anytime you want to add a touch of elegance to your table. Serve it with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s sure to disappear quickly. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces softened cream cheese
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, chopped green onions, chopped green pepper, lemon-pepper seasoning, and seasoned salt. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
- Shape the Cheese Mixture:
- Once the mixture is well mixed, shape it into a ball using your hands. If the mixture is too soft to handle, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm it up slightly.
- Coat with Chopped Pecans:
- Spread the chopped pecans out on a flat surface, such as a plate or cutting board.
- Roll the cheese ball in the chopped pecans, pressing gently to ensure that the pecans adhere to the surface of the cheese ball. Continue rolling until the entire surface is coated with pecans.
- Chill and Set:
- Once coated, transfer the cheese ball to a serving platter or plate.
- Cover the cheese ball with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese ball to set.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once chilled, remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly.
- Serve the Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies for dipping.
- Enjoy the delicious combination of sweet pineapple, savory cheese, and crunchy pecans in every bite!
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Customize the Nuts: Feel free to substitute the pecans with chopped walnuts, almonds, or even shredded coconut for a different flavor and texture.
- Add a Sweet Twist: For an extra touch of sweetness, roll the cheese ball in additional crushed pineapple or finely chopped dried fruit before coating it with nuts.
- Make it Spicy: Add a kick of heat by incorporating chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to 1-2 days in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, until ready to serve.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese? A: While cream cheese is traditionally used for cheese balls, you can experiment with other soft cheeses such as goat cheese or Brie for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I omit the nuts for allergies? A: Absolutely! If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can skip the pecans or substitute them with finely chopped pretzels, crispy bacon bits, or even more chopped green onions for added texture.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: If you have any leftover cheese ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving again.
Delight your taste buds with our Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball, a deliciously creamy and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this cheese ball is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. With its irresistible combination of sweet pineapple, savory cream cheese, crunchy pecans, and zesty seasonings, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy this irresistible party snack!
