Cheese Ball El Quicko
A creamy, sweet and nutty cheese ball with pineapple and pecans, perfect for spreading on crackers at parties or gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy fruit and nuts in cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the softened cream cheese and drained crushed pineapple together.
- Roll the mixture in chopped pecans.
- Chill the cheese ball for an hour.
- Serve on wheat crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of softened. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the cheese mixture. This cheese ball is versatile and can also be served with various dips or spreads, making it a great appetizer for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball on a platter with an assortment of wheat crackers, fresh veggies, or sliced baguette to create a beautiful appetizer spread. This dish pairs beautifully with Coconut Ambrosia Salad for a delightful contrast. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of Frankfurter-Lima Casserole to round out the menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing. If you want to serve it again, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Ball El Quicko contains roughly 527 calories, with 8g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. 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 a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe, chill it, and store it in the fridge. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. This will change the flavor slightly, but it will still provide a creamy base for your cheese ball.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, mix in chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cream cheese mixture. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference, and consider serving it with spicy crackers for an extra kick.
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).