Faye'S Cheese Ball
A creamy, nutty cheese ball with pineapple and green pepper, perfect for parties and served with crackers for a sweet-savory appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl; chill overnight in the refrigerator.
- Form the mixture into a ball and roll in 1 cup of finely chopped pecans.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the crushed pineapple with finely chopped bell peppers for a savory twist. If you're short on pecans, walnuts can work as a substitute. Adjust the seasoned salt to taste, especially if using salted nuts. For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with a variety of crackers, such as water crackers or whole grain options. For a more festive touch, serve with sliced apples or celery sticks. Consider complementing it with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats or other vegetarian recipes for a balanced appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap any leftover cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 5-7 days. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture. When ready to serve again, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften before rolling in pecans again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Faye'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 828 calories, with 12g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1758mg per serving (76% 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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to refrigerate it overnight after forming the ball and before rolling it in pecans.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're looking for a different nut, walnuts are a great alternative. You could also try sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
Can I add other ingredients to this cheese ball?
Yes, feel free to get creative! You can add herbs like dill or parsley, or even spices like smoked paprika for added flavor. Chopped olives or jalapeños can also give it a unique twist.
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).