Plantation Cheese Ball
A creamy cheese ball infused with vanilla pudding and fruit cocktail, topped with nuts, perfect for parties and served with crackers for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream cheese and dry vanilla pudding together well.
- Drain the fruit cocktail very well on paper towels and add it to the cream cheese mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a ball (or mound if on a flat plate) and pat the chopped nuts on top.
- Serve with Wheat Thin crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat cream cheese. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the instant vanilla pudding with butterscotch or chocolate. You can also mix in finely chopped fruits like pineapple or apples to add more flavor. Ensure the fruit cocktail is thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ball is best served with Wheat Thin crackers, which complement its creamy sweetness. You can also offer a variety of dippers such as celery sticks, apple slices, or even toasted baguette slices. For an elegant presentation, arrange the cheese ball on a platter with fresh fruit or pair it with a side of Lemon Pepper Green Beans for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the cheese ball. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften before enjoying with crackers or as a spread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plantation Cheese Ball contains roughly 402 calories, with 7g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. 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 use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may alter the texture slightly, making it less creamy. Be sure to mix it well with the pudding to achieve a good consistency.
What can I substitute for nuts if there are allergies?
If there are nut allergies, you can omit the nuts entirely or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch without the allergens.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheese ball up to 24 hours in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious result.
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).