Paulette'S Pineapple Cheese Ball
A creamy, tangy cheese ball infused with pineapple and chopped vegetables, coated with crunchy pecans, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except 1 cup of the chopped pecans.
- Chill thoroughly until firm.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the cheese ball into the remaining 1 cup of chopped pecans to coat evenly.
- Allow to come to room temperature before serving with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or substituting the pecans with walnuts for a different texture. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. Letting the cheese ball chill overnight will enhance the flavors significantly. Serve it with a variety of crackers to complement the sweetness of the pineapple.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful cheese ball with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or even apple slices for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Basic Buttermilk Biscuits for a savory touch. For a complete spread, consider offering it alongside Cheesy Corn Spread and other dips for a fun appetizer platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, allowing it to return to room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paulette'S Pineapple Cheese Ball contains roughly 227 calories, with 4g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (162% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1874mg per serving (81% 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! This cheese ball can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after shaping it to maintain its freshness. Chilling overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes for pecans. For a nut-free version, consider rolling the cheese ball in crushed pretzels or seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch and flavor without the allergens.
How do I know when the cheese ball is firm enough?
The cheese ball is ready when it holds its shape well and feels solid to the touch. It typically takes about 2-4 hours in the refrigerator to chill properly, but leaving it overnight is ideal for achieving the best texture and flavor 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).