The Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is a festive, flavor-packed appetizer that brings together creamy, tangy, sweet, and nutty elements in one irresistible bite. It’s a retro classic that’s made a strong comeback in modern entertaining—perfect for holiday spreads, potlucks, or even as a centerpiece for a grazing board. The base is a smooth blend of cream cheese, crushed pineapple, and savory seasonings, studded with green onions and bell pepper for freshness and crunch. The exterior is rolled in chopped pecans and chives, giving it a beautiful texture and visual appeal.
What makes this cheese ball stand out is its balance: the pineapple adds a gentle sweetness that complements the richness of the cream cheese, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch and earthy depth. It’s easy to make ahead, stores well, and pairs wonderfully with crackers, fruit slices, or even vegetable sticks. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick yet impressive appetizer, this cheese ball delivers flavor and flair with minimal effort.
🧂 INGREDIENTS:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, well drained
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- ¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chopped pecans (divided)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- Crackers, fresh pineapple chunks, or apple slices for serving
🔪 INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the drained crushed pineapple. Stir until smooth and well blended. Add the green onions, bell pepper (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add Texture
Fold in half of the chopped pecans into the cheese mixture. This adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy base and ensures every bite has a bit of nutty richness.
3. Shape the Cheese Ball
Using clean hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into a ball. If the mixture feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes to firm up slightly. Once shaped, place the ball on a plate lined with parchment paper.
4. Coat with Pecans and Chives
In a shallow dish, combine the remaining chopped pecans with the chopped chives. Roll the cheese ball in this mixture until it’s evenly coated on all sides. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
5. Chill and Set
Transfer the coated cheese ball to a serving platter. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the texture firm up.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve chilled with a selection of crackers, fresh pineapple chunks, apple slices, or even celery sticks. The sweet and savory profile pairs beautifully with both fruit and salty snacks.
7. Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheese ball can also be made a day ahead for convenience.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
Garnish the platter with whole pecans, pineapple wedges, or sprigs of rosemary for a festive touch. For a spicy variation, add a pinch of cayenne or finely diced jalapeño to the mix. You can also shape the cheese ball into a log or mini balls for individual servings.