A Sweet & Savory Party Appetizer with Tropical Flair!
Your new go-to party star! This creamy, crunchy cheese ball combines tangy pineapple, zesty peppers, and toasted pecans for the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Serve with crackers for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears fast!
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Make-ahead magic – Flavors deepen overnight!
✅ Unexpected twist – Tropical pineapple meets savory cheese.
✅ No baking required – Just mix, shape, and roll.
✅ Perfect for any occasion – Holidays, game day, or book club!
📝 Ingredients
(Makes 1 large cheese ball | Serves 10–12)
For the Cheese Ball:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, well drained (squeeze out excess juice!)
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- 1 tsp lemon-pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
For Coating:
- 2 cups chopped pecans, divided (toast for extra flavor!)
For Serving:
- Assorted crackers (buttery rounds, wheat thins, or pretzels)
(Optional: Add ¼ cup diced jalapeños for heat!)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Mix the Base
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add pineapple, bell pepper, green onions, lemon-pepper, and seasoned salt. Mix well.
- Fold in ½ cup pecans.
2️⃣ Shape & Chill
- Form into a ball (or log shape) with wet hands.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).
3️⃣ Coat & Serve
- Toast remaining pecans in a dry pan for 2–3 mins (optional but recommended!).
- Roll chilled cheese ball in pecans, pressing gently to adhere.
- Serve with crackers and watch it disappear!
💡 Pro Tips
🔹 For easier mixing, let cream cheese sit at room temp for 1 hour.
🔹 Extra drainage tip: Place pineapple in a fine-mesh strainer and press with a spoon.
🔹 Make mini balls for individual servings (use 1 tbsp portions).
❓ FAQs + Variations
1. Can I use fresh pineapple?
✅ Yes! Chop finely and drain well (pat dry with paper towels).
2. How long does it keep?
🧊 Fridge: Up to 5 days (wrap tightly).
❄️ Freeze without nuts: Up to 1 month (thaw overnight, then roll in pecans).
3. No pecans?
🌰 Substitute walnuts, almonds, or pretzel crumbs.
4. Gluten-free option?
🌾 Serve with GF crackers or veggie sticks.
5. Make it spicy?
🌶 Add ½ tsp cayenne or 1 tbsp sriracha to the mix.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- On a charcuterie board with fruits and meats
- With apple slices for sweet contrast
- As a sandwich spread (thin with a little mayo)
⏳ Time & Nutrition
Prep: 15 mins | Chill: 4+ hrs | Total: 4 hrs 15 mins
Calories: ~180/serving (2 tbsp) | Servings: 10–12
🌟 Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is a retro appetizer with modern appeal—creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for:
- Holiday parties
- Baby or bridal showers
- When you need a no-fuss, showstopping starter
Sweet, savory, and always the first to vanish! 🎉🧀
(Tip: For festive flair, shape into a pumpkin or tree for holidays!)
