Heavenly Pineapple Cheeseball recipe is always one of the biggest hits at any gathering and every party.
We cannot allow the combination of foods to gross us out. This would not be one of my favorites if it tasted disgusting.
So bear with me and give this a try. I had actually received this from a very dear friend. His mother used to make it for the family on special occasions.
When she passed on, he wanted to pass on one of her best and favorite recipes.
I love appetizers! No big meals to make, just lots of little tasty dishes to sample – it totally appeals the foodie in me!
Our family serves appetizers for dinner on some weeknights, along with game night, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, before Thanksgiving dinner, and lots of time when we have groups of friends over to gab or play games.
Ingredients
2 packages of softened and room temperature cream cheese.
1 can crushed pineapple, drained very well.
½ cup chopped green onions
½ cup chopped green pepper
1 tsp seasoning salt
1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
2 cups pecans, chopped nicely
Assorted crackers
How to Make Heavenly Pineapple Cheeseball
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth
Gently fold in the vegetables
Add the seasonings
Add ½ cup chopped pecans
Place this on a sheet of plastic wrap, roll and shape the cheese into a ball.
Refrigerate overnight
Just before serving, roll the ball into the remaining chopped pecans
Set the ball onto the center of a plate and surround it with a variety of crackers
Refrigerator Storage:
Before serving: Wrap the cheeseball tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. You can prep it in advance and roll it in pecans just before serving.
After serving: If you have leftovers, re-wrap tightly or place in an airtight container. Consume within 3 days for best flavor and texture.
Freezer Storage:
Yes, you can freeze it!
Wrap the uncoated cheeseball (before rolling in pecans) tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container.
Freeze for up to 1 month.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then roll in fresh chopped pecans before serving.
Variations:
1. Sweet & Spicy Twist:
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
Swap green bell pepper for red for a sweeter note.
2. Tropical Flair:
Mix in a few tablespoons of shredded coconut for an island-inspired touch.
Try using mango or papaya in place of some of the pineapple for a fun twist.
3. Savory & Smoky:
Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham.
Use smoked paprika or a hint of chipotle powder in place of lemon pepper.
4. Herbaceous Blend:
Add fresh chopped parsley, dill, or chives for a bright, fresh flavor.
5. Cheese Boost:
Mix in a bit of shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for extra richness.
Tips:
Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Use a fine mesh strainer or even press gently with paper towels to avoid a soggy cheeseball.
Use Room Temp Cream Cheese: This makes it much easier to mix and shape.
Chill Time Matters: Refrigerating overnight not only firms it up but deepens the flavor.
Shape Options: Try shaping into a log, wreath, or mini balls for variety.
Serving Tip: Let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving so it softens slightly and spreads easily.
Per Serving (Approx. 1 oz / 2 tbsp):
Calories: 120–140
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 250–300mg
Carbohydrates: 3–4g
Sugars: 2–3g
Protein: 2g
Note:
These values can vary depending on the brand of cream cheese, how well the pineapple is drained, and how many pecans are used on the outside.
Crackers are not included in the count.