Granny'S Cheese Ball
A creamy cheese ball infused with pineapple, scallions, and green pepper, coated with nuts, perfect for parties and cheese platters, offering a sweet-savory flavor combo.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, chopped scallions, green pepper, and chopped parsley until well combined.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans or walnuts to coat.
- Refrigerate until chilled and serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you don't have scallions, finely chopped red onion can be a good substitute. For a different texture, consider mixing in some finely chopped bell peppers or a splash of lemon juice. This cheese ball pairs beautifully with assorted crackers and can also be enjoyed with fresh vegetable sticks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, or crostini for a delightful appetizer. It also pairs well with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery for a crunchy side. Consider serving it alongside Aunt Joyce'S Icebox Pie for a fun dessert option that complements the savory flavor of the cheese ball.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing, as it may become grainy upon thawing. To serve again, simply remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing or spreading.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny'S Cheese Ball contains roughly 636 calories, with 21g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (110% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% 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, you can prepare the cheese ball a day ahead of time. Form it into a ball and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just remember to coat it with nuts right before serving for the best texture and presentation.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. These alternatives will alter the flavor slightly but still provide a creamy base. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to maintain a balanced taste.
How can I add more flavor to the cheese ball?
You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like dill or chives, or spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Additionally, incorporating finely chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes can also introduce a delightful savory element to your 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).