Hawaiian Cheese Ball
A sweet and savory Hawaiian cheese ball combining cream cheese, pineapple, and crunchy pecans, perfect for parties or as a flavorful appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour crushed drained pineapple into paper towels and blot to drain well.
- Mix all ingredients together and form into a ball.
- Roll the cheese ball in chopped pecans until well covered.
- Refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the mixture. If you don't have green pepper, chopped jalapeños can add a nice kick. Make sure to thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple to avoid a watery cheese ball. For a different texture, try rolling the cheese ball in toasted coconut instead of pecans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hawaiian cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, pita chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Pair it with tropical drinks or fruity cocktails for a delightful appetizer spread. This dish also pairs beautifully with Appetizer Cheese Fondue for a festive gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain the cheese ball's texture, avoid freezing it, as the cream cheese may separate upon thawing. Simply pull it out 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Cheese Ball contains roughly 858 calories, with 15g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 646mg per serving (28% 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 the cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after rolling it in pecans and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served.
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 alternative. Both will provide a creamy texture while lowering the fat content. Just be mindful that the flavor may vary slightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture. You could also serve it with spicy crackers for an extra kick or drizzle with sriracha before serving.
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).