Description
This Pineapple Cheese Ball is a delightful party appetizer combining creamy softened cream cheese with sweet crushed pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic spices. Rolled in a mixture of chopped pecans and fresh parsley, it offers a perfect balance of creamy texture, sweetness, and nutty crunch. Easy to prepare and chill, it is an ideal make-ahead dish to serve with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables for any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Mixture
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Coating
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Drain the Pineapple: Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer and press gently to remove excess liquid. This ensures the cheese ball won’t be too watery.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well until fully blended and smooth.
- Shape and Chill: Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape into one large ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm to allow flavors to meld and the ball to set.
- Prepare Coating: On a flat plate, combine the chopped pecans and chopped fresh parsley for the outer coating.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: Remove the chilled cheese ball from the refrigerator and roll it in the pecan and parsley mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
- Serve: Place the finished cheese ball on a serving plate and serve with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables as a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the cheese ball.
- Chilling the cheese ball is crucial for firmness and flavor melding; do not skip or shorten refrigeration.
- For added flair, try adding chopped green onions or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Serve with a variety of dippers like pita chips, sliced baguette, or crunchy vegetables.
