Pineapple Nut Ball
Creamy pineapple and pecan cheese balls with a hint of green pepper and onion, perfect for entertaining and pairing with crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the softened cream cheese, 1 cup chopped pecans, drained crushed pineapple, chopped green pepper, grated onion, and seasoned salt; mix well and chill for one hour.
- Divide the mixture in half. Shape each portion into a 3-inch ball and roll in the remaining chopped pecans.
- Chill the cheese balls for several hours.
- Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing. This recipe can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for entertaining.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pineapple Nut Ball with a variety of crackers to enhance its flavors. It pairs beautifully with cream cheese swirl coffee cake for a delightful brunch. You can also offer fresh vegetables like celery sticks or bell pepper strips for a refreshing contrast. Perfect for parties, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pineapple Nut Ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cheese balls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Nut Ball contains roughly 1342 calories, with 23g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1513mg per serving (66% 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 Pineapple Nut Ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the instructions, shape the cheese balls, and refrigerate them. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
What can I substitute for pecans in this recipe?
If you're looking for alternatives to pecans, walnuts or almonds work well in this recipe. For a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be used instead. They will provide a nice crunch without the allergens.
How can I enhance the flavor of the Pineapple Nut Ball?
You can enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like dill or chives to the mixture. A bit of garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper can also elevate the taste. Experimenting with different spices can make this dish even more exciting.
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).