Aloha Cheese Ball
A festive cheese ball layered with cream cheese, blue cheese, pineapple, and sharp cheddar, perfect for parties and gatherings with a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the first five ingredients (cream cheese, blue cheese, pineapple, chopped pecans, candied ginger) and blend well.
- Spoon the mixture into a 1-quart mold and chill.
- Combine the next five ingredients (cream cheese, milk, shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, grated onion) and blend well.
- Spread the second mixture over the first layer in the mold.
- Refrigerate overnight until firm, then unmold.
- Garnish the top layer with coconut and pecan halves if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is softened before blending. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the blue cheese with feta or goat cheese. Adding a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor profile. To add a tropical twist, consider mixing in some toasted coconut flakes or chopped fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
This Aloha Cheese Ball makes a delightful appetizer for gatherings. Serve it with an assortment of crackers, sliced vegetables, or fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with sweet treats like Mary Pearl'S Fresh Apple Cake or a light salad for a balanced spread. Consider garnishing with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften. If you prefer a warm version, you can gently microwave it in short bursts, but be careful not to melt it completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aloha Cheese Ball contains roughly 690 calories, with 13g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 684mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
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, this cheese ball can be made a day ahead of time. Prepare it as directed, then refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste when served.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're looking for a substitution for pecans, walnuts or almonds work well in this recipe. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. However, if you want to make it vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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).