Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball 🍍🧀

A sweet, tangy, and crunchy crowd-pleaser—perfect for holiday parties, game day, or charcuterie boards!

Ingredients

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well (squeeze out excess juice)

• ¼ cup pineapple preserves (or apricot jam)

• 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• ½ cup green onions, finely chopped

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• 1½ cups chopped pecans, toasted (divided)

• Crackers, apple slices, or pretzels (for serving)

Instructions

1. Mix the Base:

   • In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.

   • Fold in pineapple, preserves, cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, and ½ cup pecans.

2. Shape & Coat:

   • Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap. Scoop the mixture onto it and shape into a ball (or log).

   • Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).

3. Add the Crust:

   • Before serving, roll the cheese ball in the remaining 1 cup toasted pecans, pressing gently to adhere.

4. Serve:

   • Pair with buttery crackers, apple slices, or celery sticks.

   • Garnish with extra green onions or a drizzle of honey for flair.

Tips & Variations

🌶 Spicy Twist: Add ¼ tsp cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
🍯 Extra Sweetness: Swap preserves for honey + 1 tbsp Dijon mustard.
🧀 Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack or Gouda instead of cheddar.
🌿 Herb Boost: Mix in 1 tbsp fresh thyme or rosemary.

Make ahead! Flavors deepen after 24 hours. Let sit at room temp 20 mins before serving for ideal spreadability.

Enjoy this retro-classic with a tropical twist! 🎉