Almond Fruited Cheese Ball
A creamy, fruity cheese ball coated with crushed cereal and coconut, ideal for parties or as a sweet appetizer, combining pineapple, almond, and coconut flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cream cheese, flaked coconut, drained crushed pineapple, almond extract, chopped dates, and 1/2 cup of crushed almond delight cereal.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Form the chilled mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in the remaining crushed cereal to coat evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract can be a suitable substitute, although it will slightly change the flavor profile. To reduce sweetness, you can decrease the amount of chopped dates or use unsweetened coconut flakes. This cheese ball pairs wonderfully with Tortilla Snacks for a delightful appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Almond Fruited Cheese Ball with an assortment of crackers, sliced fruits, or fresh vegetables for a delightful snack or appetizer. It also makes a great addition to a cheese platter alongside other vegetarian recipes. Pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving again to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Fruited Cheese Ball contains roughly 370 calories, with 3g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese ball in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days ahead of time. Just ensure it is well-wrapped and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of dates?
If you don't have dates, dried apricots or raisins work well as substitutes. Both will add natural sweetness, but feel free to adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Ensure the other ingredients, like cereal and coconut, are also dairy-free for a complete dairy-free cheese ball.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).