Heavenly Pineapple Cheeseball

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 Heavenly Pineapple Cheeseball

Description

This Heavenly Pineapple Cheeseball is the ultimate combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors—perfect for parties, holidays, or casual gatherings. The luscious cream cheese base is mixed with crushed pineapple, green onions, and bell peppers, then rolled in crunchy chopped pecans. It’s irresistibly tropical, refreshing, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser when served with crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks.

Ingredients

  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup chopped pecans (for coating)

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 tablespoon honey (for extra sweetness)

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a sweet-heat twist)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients:
    Make sure the pineapple is well-drained by pressing out excess juice using paper towels.

  2. Mix the Cheeseball:
    In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, pineapple, bell pepper, green onion, and salt. Stir or beat until evenly mixed and smooth.

  3. Shape and Chill:
    Form the mixture into a ball (or two smaller ones). Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

  4. Roll in Pecans:
    Spread chopped pecans on a plate. Unwrap the chilled cheeseball and roll it in the pecans until evenly coated.

  5. Serve:
    Place on a serving platter and serve with your favorite crackers, pretzels, or sliced veggies.

Notes

  • Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent a watery cheeseball.

  • You can use toasted pecans for extra flavor and crunch.

  • For a festive presentation, garnish with a sprig of parsley or pineapple slices.

  • This recipe can be made up to 2 days ahead—store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge.

Tips

  • Make it lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese or Neufchâtel cheese.

  • Add flavor depth: Mix in 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder.

  • For serving variety: Try pairing with sweet crackers like graham crackers for a dessert-like touch.

Servings

  • Makes: 10–12 servings

  • Serving Size: About 2 tablespoons per person

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180

  • Protein: 4g

  • Fat: 16g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

  • Carbohydrates: 6g

  • Sugars: 4g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 180mg

Benefits

  • Pineapple provides vitamin C and bromelain for immune and digestive support.

  • Cream cheese offers protein and calcium for bone health.

  • Pecans contribute healthy fats and antioxidants.

  • A perfect appetizer that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings!

Q&A

Q1: Can I make this cheeseball without nuts?
Yes! You can coat it with shredded coconut, crushed crackers, or toasted breadcrumbs instead.

Q2: How long will it last in the refrigerator?
It will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored tightly wrapped.

Q3: Can I freeze the cheeseball?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic and foil—freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q4: What crackers go best with it?
Ritz, wheat thins, or buttery water crackers complement its sweet-savory flavor beautifully.

Q5: Can I serve it warm?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature—warming may alter its texture.

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