Kraft pineapple cheese ball recipe

The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

When it comes to easy and crowd-pleasing appetizers, the Pineapple Cheese Ball stands out for its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. This creamy, tangy, and slightly crunchy delight will surely be the star of any gathering, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward to make and a guaranteed hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique Flavor Combination: The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly complements the tanginess of the cream cheese and the crunchiness of the nuts or pretzels.
Versatile: It can be served with crackers, vegetable sticks, or even spread on bread.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing you more time to focus on other aspects of your meal.

Ingredients Needed

For a perfect Pineapple Cheese Ball, you will need the following ingredients:

2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup chopped green onions
½ cup chopped bell peppers (red or green, for color)
1 tablespoon minced garlic (optional, for added flavor)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chopped nuts or pretzels (pecans, walnuts, or a mix, for coating)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base Mixture

Mix the Cream Cheese and Pineapple: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and crushed pineapple. Using a spatula or an electric mixer, blend the two ingredients until they are well combined. The mixture should be smooth, creamy, and infused with pineapple juice.
Add the Cheddar Cheese: Incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture. The sharpness of the cheddar adds a wonderful depth of flavor that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.

Fold in the Vegetables: Add the chopped green onions and bell peppers to the mixture. These add not only a delightful crunch but also a pop of color. If you prefer a hint of spice, you can add a small amount of chopped jalapeño.
Season to Perfection: Add minced garlic (if using), Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the mixture. These seasonings enhance the overall flavor, giving the cheese ball a savory kick.

Step 2: Shape the Cheese Ball

Refrigerate to Firm Up: Before shaping, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for about 1-2 hours. This helps it firm up, making it easier to mold into a ball.
Shape into a Ball: Once the mixture is firm, remove it from the refrigerator. Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your kitchen counter and spoon the mixture onto the center. Using your hands, shape the mixture into a ball, wrapping it tightly in the plastic wrap.

Step 3: Coat the Cheese Ball

Prepare the Coating: Spread the chopped nuts or pretzels on a large plate. The nuts add a delightful crunch, while pretzels provide a salty contrast to the sweet pineapple.
Roll the Cheese Ball: Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the chopped nuts or pretzels, pressing lightly to ensure it is fully coated on all sides. This step gives the cheese ball its signature look and texture.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Chill Before Serving: Place the coated cheese ball back in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve with Dippers: When ready to serve, place the Pineapple Cheese Ball on a serving platter surrounded by an assortment of crackers, vegetable sticks, or even pita chips.
Garnish: For a festive touch, you can garnish with a few pineapple chunks or a sprinkle of chopped green onions.

Tips for Success

Ensure the Pineapple is Well-Drained: Excess moisture from the pineapple can make the cheese ball runny. Squeeze out as much juice as possible before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.
Customize the Coating: While chopped nuts or pretzels are classic choices, feel free to experiment with crushed potato chips, bacon bits, or even toasted coconut flakes.
Make Ahead: This cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Room Temperature Serving: Allow the cheese ball to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This softens it slightly, making it easier to spread.

Variations to Try

Spicy Pineapple Cheese Ball: Add some heat by incorporating finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture.
Ham and Pineapple Cheese Ball: Add diced ham to the mixture for a Hawaiian twist. This variation is perfect for those who love the classic ham and pineapple combination.
Tropical Cheese Ball: Mix in some shredded coconut and diced mango or papaya for a tropical version. Coat the outside with toasted coconut for an exotic flair.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional content of this cheese ball will vary depending on the exact ingredients and quantities used. However, on average, a serving size (about 2 tablespoons) may contain:

Calories: 110
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 2g

Conclusion

The Pineapple Cheese Ball is a delightful blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy flavors that will undoubtedly become a favorite at any gathering. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it an excellent choice for any occasion. With its eye-catching appearance and irresistible taste, it is sure to impress your guests!