Sweet Savory Pineapple Ball

This creamy, sweet-and-savory Pineapple Cheese Ball is a beloved appetizer that has been a family tradition for decades. It brings together the bright sweetness of pineapple with the richness of cream cheese and the satisfying crunch of pecans. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, summer barbecue, or casual get-together, this cheese ball is always a crowd favorite that disappears fast from the appetizer table.

I first made this cheese ball for a summer cookout wanting to add a nostalgic dish and it quickly stole the show. Even friends unfamiliar with it kept coming back for more, and it reminded me of my mom’s effortless way of bringing everyone together around good food.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: Use full-fat and softened to room temperature for a smooth creamy base
• Crushed pineapple: Use canned and drain very well to avoid excess moisture which prevents firmness
• Green onion: Adds a fresh mild onion flavor that balances the richness chives can be a milder substitute
• Pecans: Provide classic crunch and nuttiness toasting brings out extra flavor. Walnuts or almonds work too
• Red bell pepper: Optional for added color and crunch finely diced for an even mix
• Salt and garlic powder: Simple seasonings that round out the flavors add paprika or cayenne for heat
• For coating: Finely chopped pecans or a mix of pecans and shredded coconut create a beautiful, tactile outer layer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep your ingredients:

Make sure the cream cheese is soft for easy mixing. Thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple by pressing it in paper towels to remove as much juice as possible. Moisture control is key for shaping.

Mix everything together:

In a large bowl combine the cream cheese, drained pineapple, chopped green onion, pecans, and optional bell pepper. Add salt and garlic powder. Use a spatula or hand mixer on low speed to blend until fully smooth and incorporated.

Shape the cheese ball:

Scoop the mixture into a rough ball shape with your hands or spatula. It will still be soft at this point, but that is normal.

Chill to firm:

Wrap the ball tightly in plastic wrap and shape it as smooth as you can. Refrigerate for at least two to three hours to allow it to firm up and hold its shape.

Add the coating:

Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in chopped pecans or your nut and coconut mixture. Gently press so the coating sticks evenly over the surface.

Serve and enjoy:

Place it on a serving board surrounded by crackers or veggies. For best texture allow it to sit out for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly for spreading.

Save Pin

My favorite ingredient has to be the pecans. Toasting them lightly adds such a delicious warm aroma and deep crunch that complements the soft cream cheese beautifully. This recipe always brings back memories of my mom’s holiday parties where this cheese ball was the star attraction and instantly sparked conversation and smiles.

Storage Tips

Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four to five days. If the nut coating softens in the fridge, simply roll it again in fresh chopped pecans before serving. Freeze uncoated cheese ball by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling in coating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try walnuts or almonds if you prefer different nuts or have allergies. Swap green onion for chives if you want a milder onion flavor. For a no-nut version roll the cheese ball in toasted coconut flakes or crushed crackers like Ritz or panko for a tasty texture alternative. Use fresh pineapple finely crushed and drained very well but canned pineapple is more consistent and easier to work with.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheese ball with buttery Ritz crackers or crunchy pretzel crisps for a salty contrast. Add fresh cucumber slices, celery sticks, or colorful bell pepper strips for a fresh, textural balance. For an elegant presentation, place on a wooden board surrounded by toasted baguette slices and a charcuterie assortment. Pair with fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes to highlight the pineapple’s sweetness and add variety.

Cultural and Historical Context

Cheese balls like this one have roots in mid twentieth century American party culture where simple yet flavorful dishes were staples on holiday and social gatherings. Combining cream cheese with sweet and savory ingredients was popular as it required no oven and could be made ahead, making it practical and impressive for hosts. Adding pineapple and nuts gives this cheese ball a tropical flair that feels festive and fresh, especially at summer get-togethers or nostalgic family events.

Pro Tips

Always drain the pineapple thoroughly. I learned the hard way that too much juice means a very soft cheese ball that won’t firm up properly. Don’t skip toasting the pecans. It adds an incredible depth of flavor and a warm nuttiness that fresh raw nuts lack. Shape and chill the cheese ball overnight if possible. This step lets all the flavors meld and creates a smooth, firm texture that is so satisfying to eat.

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can this cheese ball be made in advance?

Yes, preparing it at least 24 hours ahead allows flavors to meld and improves texture once chilled.

→ How can I firm up a too-soft cheese ball?

Drain the pineapple thoroughly and chill longer. Adding extra chopped pecans can also help create a firmer texture.

→ Are nuts necessary for the coating?

Not required—try toasted coconut, crushed crackers, or fresh herbs for alternative coatings.

→ Is fresh pineapple a good substitute for canned?

Fresh pineapple works if finely crushed and very well drained to avoid excess moisture affecting firmness.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Wrap tightly in plastic or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.

→ Can this be frozen?

Freeze before coating tightly wrapped, then thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling in pecans.