Name: Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: Ingredients:; 2 packages (8 oz each cream cheese, softened); 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained); 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded); 1/4 cup green bell pepper (chopped); 1/4 cup onion (chopped); 1/4 cup celery (chopped); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 cup chopped pecans

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Table of Contents

Introduction

Some recipes have a way of weaving themselves into your family traditions without you even realizing it. For me, this Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball started as a gift — quite literally. About fifteen years ago, I was at a Christmas party hosted by one of my dearest friends. The house was glowing with warm lights, soft carols playing in the background, and that unmistakable holiday aroma of cinnamon, pine, and something delicious baking in the oven.

In the middle of the table sat this glorious, golden-speckled ball, surrounded by crackers, pretzel sticks, and fresh pineapple chunks. I didn’t know it yet, but I was looking at my next signature dish. One bite was all it took: the smooth cream cheese melted on my tongue, the sweet pineapple popped through with its tropical brightness, the cheddar gave it depth, and those crunchy pecans on the outside were the perfect contrast.

I asked her where she got it, assuming it was from some fancy catering company. She laughed and whispered, “Honey, I made it yesterday in less than 15 minutes.” I was floored. That night, I left not just with a full belly but also with the recipe scribbled on a piece of holiday stationery.

From that year onward, the Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball became as much a part of my Christmas as decorating the tree or watching It’s a Wonderful Life. And it’s not just for Christmas anymore — it has shown up at baby showers, summer BBQs, and even as a quick game night snack. Much like this Lemon Cream Cake Recipe, it has that rare magic of being both simple to make and impossible to resist.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this cheese ball lies in the contrast. You get sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy all in one bite. The cream cheese provides a rich and smooth base. The pineapple brings in juicy sweetness, making each bite feel refreshing rather than heavy. Sharp cheddar balances the sweetness with a little tang, and the fresh veggies — bell pepper, onion, and celery — add texture and brightness.

And then there are the pecans. Oh, the pecans. Coating the outside with chopped pecans gives you that nutty crunch in every mouthful. It’s like wrapping a creamy cloud in a crispy blanket. If you’ve ever had those comforting Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, you know how important texture can be in making a dish unforgettable.

Ingredients

2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chopped pecans (for coating)

Directions

Prepare the Cream Cheese Base – Start with cream cheese at room temperature. In a large mixing bowl, use a sturdy spatula or an electric mixer to beat it until smooth and fluffy.
Add the Flavor Builders – Stir in the drained pineapple, shredded cheddar cheese, bell pepper, onion, celery, salt, and pepper. Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
Form the Shape – Using clean hands or a spatula, gather the mixture and shape it into a ball.
Coat with Pecans – Spread the chopped pecans on a plate or shallow dish. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently so they stick to every surface.
Wrap and Chill – Wrap the entire cheese ball in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This helps the flavors blend and the ball to firm up.
Serve and Enjoy – Unwrap the cheese ball, place it on a serving platter, and surround it with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggie sticks.

Tips & Variations

Spicy Kick – Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix.
Different Nuts – Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Mini Cheese Balls – Roll into small, bite-sized balls and coat individually for easy single servings.
Festive Coating – For holidays, mix chopped dried cranberries with the pecans for a colorful twist.

If you’re a fan of creamy appetizers, you’ll also love pairing this with a warm bowl of Creamy Mushroom Soup — the combination of hot and cold textures is a real treat.

Storage

Store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to make it ahead, you can freeze it (without the pecan coating) for up to a month. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and coat it before serving.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 10–12

Tools Used

Large mixing bowl
Electric mixer or sturdy spatula
Plastic wrap
Sharp knife

Making Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball a Holiday Tradition

What makes a recipe worth repeating every year? For me, it’s a combination of flavor, nostalgia, and simplicity. This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball hits all three. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up the night before a party without stressing, but it still gets the “Wow!” reaction when you set it on the table.

At my house, this cheese ball has been served next to everything from glazed ham to grilled burgers. It’s even been a part of summer picnics — a reminder that good food knows no season. Much like the hearty Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings, this recipe creates moments, not just meals.

Final Thoughts

The Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s festive, colorful, and incredibly easy to make. And if you want even more appetizer inspiration, check out the creative ideas on Allrecipes — there’s a treasure trove of dishes that can make your holiday table shine.