Gourmandise Cheese Ball
A delightful cheese ball combining sweet pineapple and crunchy pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings, served with crackers and fresh fruit for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple, reserving 2 tablespoons of juice.
- In a small mixer bowl, beat softened Gourmandise, cream cheese, and the reserved pineapple juice until well blended.
- Stir in the drained pineapple and chill thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a ball; roll in chopped pecans.
- Chill until serving time.
- Serve with crackers and fresh fruit slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cheeses to soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. If you want to add a flavor twist, consider incorporating finely chopped green onions or herbs such as dill or parsley. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with the Best Vanilla Ice Cream for a sweet contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is perfect for parties and gatherings. Serve it alongside an assortment of crackers, fresh fruit slices like apples and pears, or even vegetable sticks for a crunchy contrast. It also pairs well with a selection of wines, making it a great addition to any cheese platter or appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To maintain its shape and texture, keep the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the cream cheese. Serve chilled for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gourmandise Cheese Ball contains roughly 297 calories, with 5g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just shape it and roll it in nuts, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Bring it out shortly before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
What can I serve with the cheese ball?
This cheese ball is versatile; serve it with a variety of dippers such as assorted crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers. For added flavor, include some sliced cured meats or a fruit chutney on the side.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of this cheese ball. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious. Just ensure it’s softened for easy blending.
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).