Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

This Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is the ultimate party appetizer, combining creamy cheese, tangy pineapple, and crispy bacon in a deliciously sweet and savory dish. Perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, or potlucks, this easy-to-make recipe will impress your guests and become a crowd favorite. Serve it with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables for the perfect pairing.

Ingredients

• 6 strips OSCAR MAYER Hardwood Smoked Bacon, uncooked
• 20 oz. crushed pineapple
• 2 (8 oz.) packages PHILADELPHIA Original Cream Cheese
• 1 cup KRAFT Natural Cheese Sharp Cheddar
• 1 oz. Ranch dressing mix
• ¼ cup green onions (optional)
• ¾ cup PLANTERS Roasted Pecans, roughly chopped
• ¾ cup dried cranberries

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon: Heat a large pan over medium-low heat and cook the bacon strips slowly. Use tongs to flip the strips as the ends curl to ensure even cooking. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Roughly chop the cooked bacon.
2. Prepare the Pineapple: Place the crushed pineapple in a strainer and press out as much juice as possible using the back of a spoon. For extra dryness, wrap the drained pineapple in paper towels and squeeze out any remaining liquid. You should have just over ½ cup of pineapple once drained.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped bacon, drained pineapple, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch dressing mix, and green onions (if using) with a silicone spatula until well combined.
4. Shape the Cheese Ball: Form the mixture into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in the freezer for 5 minutes to firm up.
5. Coat the Cheese Ball: Spread the chopped pecans and dried cranberries on a plate or cutting board. Remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll it in the pecan-cranberry mixture until evenly coated.
6. Chill and Serve: Rewrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with crackers, pretzels, pita chips, or fresh vegetables.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties and gatherings, this cheese ball combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a fuss-free appetizer.
• Versatile: Pairs well with various dippers, from crunchy crackers to fresh veggies.

Tips

• Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Excess liquid can make the cheese ball too soft to hold its shape.
• Chill Time: Letting the cheese ball sit in the fridge allows the flavors to blend and the texture to firm up.
• Even Bacon Cooking: Use medium-low heat and flip often for perfectly crispy bacon.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if desired.
• Dried Fruit: Substitute cranberries with raisins or chopped dried apricots for a different flavor profile.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for a hint of spice.
• Cheese: Use Monterey Jack or Colby cheese in place of cheddar for a milder taste.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have Ranch dressing mix?
You can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill as a substitute.

Can I freeze the cheese ball?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese may change.

Serving

Place the cheese ball on a decorative platter with an assortment of dippers such as crackers, pretzels, pita chips, or sliced fresh vegetables. Garnish with extra green onions or chopped nuts for presentation.

Suggestions

• Serve during holidays or special occasions as a centerpiece appetizer.
• Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus for a refreshing accompaniment.
• Double the recipe to ensure there’s enough for larger gatherings.