Hey, fellow food lovers! Nyla here from Grill Drip, and I’m so excited to welcome you into my delicious corner of the internet. Today, we’re turning a simple snack into something truly special – a Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball that’s bursting with flavor! This isn’t just any appetizer; it’s a sweet and savory explosion that will make your taste buds sing!
I stumbled upon this amazing Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball recipe during one of my late-night kitchen experiments. I was craving something both sweet and savory, and I had a serious hankering for a creamy cheese ball. I decided to mix things up with some unexpected ingredients, and the result was pure magic! It was a happy accident that has now become a family favorite. The combination of tangy cranberries, sweet pineapple, and crunchy pecans creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.
This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to get creative in the kitchen and to turn ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. It’s about embracing bold flavors, having fun with your food, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, if you’re ready to embark on a flavor adventure, grab your apron, and let’s get started! I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, and I’m even more excited to hear about your delicious creations!
INGREDIENTS You Need
This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! You can grab almost everything on your normal shopping trip.

- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
No worries if you don’t have green onions! I often use chives in my Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball, and they work just as well. This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball gets its amazing taste from the combination of sweet and savory, with the garlic and onion powder adding a delicious depth of flavor.
Here’s my Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball secret that takes it from good to incredible: make sure your cream cheese is really soft! It makes all the difference in getting that perfect creamy texture. For those busy weeknights, you can chop the cranberries and pecans ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. I love adding extra garlic powder to my Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball for that extra kick! Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Let’s Make Some!
This is my favorite part of making Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball – watch the magic happen! These steps are written like we’re cooking together in my kitchen, so it’ll be like you have a friend right here with you.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, chopped dried cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Mix all ingredients until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese.
- On a large piece of plastic wrap, form the mixture into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. This is where the magic starts happening! It gives the flavors time to get to know each other.
While your Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is doing its thing in the fridge, get ready for some amazing aromas! The sweet and savory scents will start to fill your kitchen.
- Before serving, unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving plate.
- In a separate bowl, combine the remaining chopped cranberries and pecans. Press the mixture onto the outside of the cheese ball to coat it evenly. I love this part because it adds such a beautiful texture and flavor to the final product.
- Serve with your favorite crackers, pretzels, or sliced baguette.
In my kitchen, this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball usually takes about 10 minutes to prep and a couple of hours to chill. It’s perfect for making ahead of time, which is a lifesaver during busy weeks. This is where I usually sneak a little taste of the mixture. Don’t worry if your Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball looks a little uneven after coating it with the cranberries and pecans. It’ll still taste absolutely incredible!
This is a recipe I found via Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball | Stephie Cooks. I have made this recipe a dozen times and each time it comes out great. It is one of the best Pineapple Cheese Spreads I have ever made.
How to Serve Up This!
People literally do happy dances when this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball hits the table with a platter of buttery crackers. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures that everyone loves. I love to enjoy this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball with a variety of crackers, such as Ritz, Triscuits, and Wheat Thins. The buttery crackers pair perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple and cranberries.
This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is perfect for those weeknight dinners that need to be special! It’s also a crowd-pleaser at parties, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. For a festive presentation, try arranging the crackers around the cheese ball in a circular pattern. You can also add some fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for a pop of color.
If you have any leftover Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball (which is rare!), you can use it to make delicious sandwiches or wraps. Spread it on some bread or tortillas with your favorite fillings, such as turkey, ham, or vegetables. Another delicious option is to crumble the cheese ball over a salad for a burst of flavor and texture. I’ve even used it as a topping for baked potatoes, and it was a total hit!
For a fusion variation, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese ball mixture for a little bit of heat. It’s a surprising and delicious twist that will keep your guests coming back for more. I once served this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball at a game night, and it was gone in minutes! Everyone raved about the unique flavor combination and creamy texture.
FAQs:
Here are some frequently asked questions about my Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball, and I’m excited to share my personal cooking experiments and discoveries with you!
Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball?
Absolutely! This recipe is super simple and straightforward. If you can mix ingredients in a bowl, you can make this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball. Trust me, there’s nothing to be intimidated about.
What if I mess up my Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!)
Okay, real talk: even if your cheese ball doesn’t look perfect, it’ll still taste amazing. The flavors are so good that a little imperfection won’t matter. Plus, you can always cover up any mistakes with extra cranberries and pecans!
How can I prep this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball for busy weeknights?
You can make the cheese ball a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. I often chop the cranberries and pecans ahead of time, too.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to drain it really well to prevent the cheese ball from becoming too watery. The pineapple and gorgonzola cheese ball is a great cheese ball.
What kind of crackers go best with this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball?
I personally love serving it with a variety of crackers, such as Ritz, Triscuits, and Wheat Thins. But honestly, anything goes! Use whatever you like best.
Can I freeze this Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball?
While you can technically freeze it, the texture might change a bit. It’s best to make it fresh for the best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try using dairy-free cream cheese, but I haven’t tested it myself. If you do, let me know how it turns out!
This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball reminds me of another bold flavor favorite, this pineapple pecan cheese ball that is out of this world. You can also get great Hawaiian cheese ball recipe for special occasions from facebook.
CONCLUSION:
This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball brings me so much joy because it’s a reminder that food should be fun and delicious. It’s a simple recipe that always puts a smile on people’s faces, and that’s what cooking is all about for me. It is a holiday cheese ball that will be sure to make you the star of the Christmas Party.

- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Make sure your cream cheese is really soft. This will make it easier to mix and create a smoother texture.
- Don’t skimp on the cranberries and pecans. They add so much flavor and texture to the cheese ball.
- Spicy Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and a dash of hot sauce to the cheese ball mixture. This version is perfect for those who like a little bit of heat.
- Smoked Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball: Use smoked cream cheese for a smoky twist. This version is great for barbecues and outdoor gatherings.
- Herbed Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball: Add some fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the cheese ball mixture. This version is perfect for the holidays.
\n \n Print
Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball
This Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for any holiday gathering. Creamy cheese is combined with sweet pineapple, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Crackers, for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the drained crushed pineapple, chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove the cheese mixture from the refrigerator.
- Shape the cheese mixture into a ball.
- Place the remaining chopped pecans on a plate or in a shallow dish.
- Roll the cheese ball in the pecans, coating it evenly.
- Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the pecans to adhere.
- Serve the cheese ball with crackers.
Notes
For an extra touch, drizzle the cheese ball with honey before serving. You can also substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans.

