Easy Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball Recipe

My Family’s Favorite Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

Alright, come on in, grab a seat! Let me tell you about this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball. It’s one of those recipes that’s been passed down, tweaked, and loved on in my family for years. I remember my grandma making it every holiday, and now, it wouldn’t be Christmas or Thanksgiving without it. The first time I tried to make it myself, let’s just say it was a sticky, melty mess! I didn’t let the cream cheese soften enough, and the whole thing was a disaster. But hey, we’ve all been there, right? That’s the beauty of cooking – learning from our mishaps.

This *Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball* recipe is more than just a festive appetizer; it’s a symbol of family, togetherness, and delicious memories. In my busy life, where I’m juggling kids, work, and everything in between, having a go-to recipe like this is a lifesaver. It’s easy to throw together, always a crowd-pleaser, and honestly, it brings me so much joy to see everyone enjoying something I made with love. I think I first perfected this particular version about ten years ago, after trying a few different variations. I wanted something that was sweet, savory, and had the perfect crunch. That’s why this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is a winner! My cooking philosophy is all about making delicious food that’s accessible and brings people together. I hope this recipe does just that for you and your family! So, are you ready to make the magic happen? Let’s get started! You’re going to love this pineapple pecan cheese ball, I promise! You might want to start by checking out my recipe for pineapple pecan cheese ball, just in case you want to make that version, too!

What You’ll Need for This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

Okay, let’s gather our ingredients. This is where the magic begins! Remember, quality ingredients make a difference, but don’t stress if you can’t find exactly what I use. It’s all about making it your own.

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: I always use full-fat cream cheese for my Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball because it gives the best flavor and texture. Trust me, it’s worth it!
• 8 ounces crushed pineapple, well-drained: Make sure you drain the pineapple really, really well. Soggy pineapple will ruin the texture of your cranberry cheese ball.
• 1 cup dried cranberries: I prefer to use sweetened dried cranberries for a bit of extra sweetness, but you can use unsweetened if you prefer.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Toasting the pecans beforehand adds a depth of flavor that’s just amazing. You can find pre-toasted pecans at most grocery stores, which saves time.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions: These add a nice savory bite that balances the sweetness of the pineapple and cranberries.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory flavor that enhances the other ingredients in this pineapple cheese ball.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to bring out all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little warmth and complexity.
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans, for coating: You’ll need extra pecans to coat the cheese ball. Again, toasting them first is a great idea!
• Crackers, for serving: I like to serve this with a variety of crackers, such as Ritz, Wheat Thins, and Triscuits.

When making this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball, you can usually find good deals on cream cheese around the holidays, so stock up! Also, here’s a cranberry cheese ball trick I learned from my grandma: soak the dried cranberries in a little bit of warm water for about 10 minutes before using them. This helps to plump them up and makes them even juicier. As for storage, leftover ingredients like cranberries and pecans should be stored in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. They’ll last for several weeks this way. And if you want to try something a little different, consider making my No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls for another festive treat!

Let’s Make This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball Together

Alright, let’s get down to business! Don’t worry, this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball recipe is super easy to make. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious appetizer in no time.

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t worry if your Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball mixture seems a little soft at this point; it will firm up in the refrigerator. I learned the hard way with *Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball* that it’s crucial to get the cream cheese properly softened, or you’ll end up with lumps.
2. Shape the Cheese Ball: Using your hands, form the mixture into a ball. This can be a little messy, but it’s part of the fun! If the mixture is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before shaping it. In my kitchen, this *Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball* usually takes about 5 minutes to shape.
3. Coat with Pecans: Spread the finely chopped pecans for coating on a plate. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to make sure they adhere to the surface. You want to completely cover the cheese ball with pecans. While the *Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball* is chilling, I usually clean up the kitchen and get the crackers ready for serving.
4. Chill: Wrap the Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese ball to firm up. Your Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball should smell like a delightful blend of sweet pineapple, tangy cranberries, and nutty pecans.
5. Serve: Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before serving. This will allow it to soften slightly, making it easier to spread on crackers. Serve with your favorite crackers, and enjoy! If you need a little inspiration, you can also check this recipe of Hawaiian cheese ball recipe for special occasions.

Here’s a little family-tested *Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball* shortcut: if you’re short on time, you can skip the chilling step and serve the cheese ball immediately. It won’t be as firm, but it will still taste delicious! You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. Want it a little spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Want it sweeter? Add a tablespoon of honey. It’s all about making it your own!

How I Love to Serve This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

Okay, so now you’ve got this beautiful *Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball*… what’s next? Well, my family loves this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball when I serve it with a variety of crackers. We’re talking everything from simple Ritz crackers to more robust whole-wheat options. The contrast of flavors and textures is just perfect.

My go-to side dishes that pair with this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball are usually some kind of fruit platter and maybe a bowl of mixed nuts. The fruit adds a refreshing element, and the nuts provide an extra crunch. I make this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball for all sorts of occasions – holiday parties, potlucks, game nights, you name it! It’s always a hit. When it comes to presentation, I like to arrange the cheese ball on a pretty serving platter, surrounded by crackers and maybe a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme for a festive touch. If you have extra Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball, you can use it to make mini cheese ball bites. Just roll small portions of the mixture into balls and coat them with pecans. These are perfect for individual servings. I tried a seasonal variation once, adding a bit of orange zest and juice to the mixture. It was delicious! Friends always ask for this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball recipe whenever I make it. They love the combination of sweet and savory flavors. And if you are looking for a festive appetizer, I would recommend this Christmas Cheese Ball Recipe – Julias Simply Southern.

Your Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball Questions Answered

Alright, let’s tackle some common questions I get about this *Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball*. I’ve made my share of mistakes, so I’m happy to share my wisdom (and my mishaps!)

1. Can I make this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, I recommend it. Making it a day or two in advance allows the flavors to meld together even more. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator.
2. Can I freeze this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball? I don’t recommend freezing it. The texture of the cream cheese can change when frozen and thawed, making it a little grainy.
3. What if my cheese ball is too soft? If your Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is too soft, it probably means the cream cheese wasn’t firm enough, or you didn’t drain the pineapple well enough. You know what I do when my Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is too soft? I pop it back in the fridge for an hour or two to firm up before trying to reshape it.
4. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? You can, but you need to make sure you drain it really well. Canned pineapple is already processed, so it tends to be less juicy than fresh pineapple. Using fresh pineapple might make your pineapple cheese ball too watery.
5. What kind of crackers should I serve with this? I like to serve it with a variety of crackers, such as Ritz, Wheat Thins, and Triscuits. But honestly, any crackers you like will work. It’s all about personal preference!
6. Can I add other ingredients to this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball? Of course! Feel free to get creative. Some people like to add shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, or even a little bit of jalapeño for a kick. My family prefers it as is, but I’ve tried adding a sprinkle of paprika on top for a little extra flavor.
7. What can I use instead of pecans? If you have a nut allergy, you can use sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even crushed pretzels instead of pecans. Just make sure to chop them finely so they adhere to the cheese ball.

I hope these answers help! Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball your own.

My Final Thoughts on This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is more than just a recipe to me; it’s a connection to my family and a reminder of happy holidays. It’s one of those dishes that just brings everyone together, and that’s what I love most about it.

My Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball Pro Tips:

• Toast the pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the cheese ball enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch.
• Drain the pineapple well: This is crucial to prevent the cheese ball from becoming too soggy.
• Soften the cream cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing it with the other ingredients for a smooth and creamy texture.

As for variations, I’ve tried adding a little bit of orange zest to the mixture, which adds a bright, citrusy flavor. I’ve also tried using different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds. My husband loves the version with a little bit of crumbled bacon mixed in, while my kids prefer the classic recipe. I encourage you to make this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. I hope this recipe brings you and your family as much joy as it has brought mine. Give it a try, and let me know what you think! I have a feeling it will become a new family favorite. And if you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball for another fun and flavorful appetizer!

So go on, give this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball a try. I know you’ll love it!

 
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Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

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This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for any holiday gathering. Creamy cheese is combined with sweet pineapple and cranberries, then coated in crunchy pecans for an irresistible combination of textures and tastes.

• Author: Liliana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 135 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 8 ounces crushed pineapple, well-drained
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the drained crushed pineapple, chopped cranberries, green onions, and garlic powder to the cream cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap.
4. Shape the cheese mixture into a ball using the plastic wrap. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese ball to firm up.
5. Spread the toasted chopped pecans on a plate.
6. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

Serve with your favorite crackers, pretzels, or vegetables for dipping.