Sweet And Sour Cheese Ball
A creamy, tangy cheese ball packed with pineapple, pecans, and green peppers—perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and gradually stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans, green pepper, drained pineapple, seasoning salt, and chopped green onion.
- Chill the mixture until firm.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape and roll it in the remaining chopped pecans.
- For a fancy presentation, garnish with cherries, sliced pineapple, and parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for at least an hour before mixing. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can easily substitute. Adding a dash of hot sauce can give the cheese ball an extra kick. For a fun twist, consider incorporating herbs like dill or chives, which pair well with this sweet and sour flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese ball with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or even slices of fruit for a refreshing contrast. For a themed gathering, it pairs beautifully with Georgia'S Egg Custard and other savory appetizers. Consider garnishing it with parsley and cherries to enhance its visual appeal, making it a standout centerpiece on any appetizer table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing as it can alter the cream cheese consistency. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying to soften it back up and enhance the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Cheese Ball contains roughly 1159 calories, with 19g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2272mg per serving (99% 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 made a day or two in advance. Just ensure it is tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together 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 vegan cream cheese alternative. While the flavor will differ slightly, it will still yield a deliciously creamy texture and maintain the essence of this sweet and sour cheese ball.
How can I make this recipe more festive?
To elevate the festive feel, consider rolling the cheese ball in crushed nuts or shredded coconut instead of pecans. You can also add colorful toppings such as diced bell peppers or edible flowers. Pairing it with a vibrant fruit salsa can also enhance the presentation and flavor.
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).