Tropical Delight Cheese Ball
Indulge in the flavors of the tropics with this Tropical Delight Cheese Ball. This sweet and savory appetizer combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the refreshing taste of crushed pineapple and the crunch of colorful peppers and celery. Perfect for parties or gatherings, this cheese ball is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it chilled with a variety of crackers for a delightful snack that transports your taste buds to a sunny paradise.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cream Cheese
2 (8-ounce packages, softened)
Crushed Pineapple
8 (ounces, drained)
Celery
1/4 (cup, diced)
Green Pepper
1/4 (cup, diced)
Red Pepper
1/4 (cup, diced)
Green Onion
1/4 (cup, finely chopped)
Pecans
1 (cup, chopped)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or spatula to cream the two packages of cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
2
Add the drained crushed pineapple, diced celery, green pepper, red pepper, and finely chopped green onions. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
3
Shape the mixture into a ball form, ensuring it’s compact and smooth.
4
In a separate bowl, place the chopped pecans. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans until fully coated on all sides.
5
Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and firm.
6
When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator and place on a serving platter. Serve with an assortment of crackers.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tropical Delight Cheese Ball?
The Tropical Delight Cheese Ball is a sweet and savory appetizer that combines cream cheese, crushed pineapple, colorful peppers, celery, and green onions, all coated in chopped pecans.
How many packages of cream cheese are required?
The recipe requires two 8-ounce packages of cream cheese.
Should the cream cheese be softened before starting?
Yes, for the best results and easier mixing, the cream cheese should be softened before you begin.
How much pineapple is used in this cheese ball?
You will need 8 ounces of crushed pineapple for this recipe.
Do I need to drain the crushed pineapple?
Yes, it is essential to drain the crushed pineapple before adding it to the cream cheese mixture to prevent it from becoming too soft.
What vegetables are included in the Tropical Delight Cheese Ball?
The recipe includes diced celery, green pepper, red pepper, and finely chopped green onions.
How much celery and pepper should I add?
You should use 1/4 cup each of diced celery, diced green pepper, and diced red pepper.
How much green onion is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of finely chopped green onions.
What kind of nuts are used to coat the cheese ball?
The cheese ball is coated in one cup of chopped pecans.
What tool should I use to mix the ingredients?
You can use either a hand mixer or a spatula to cream the cheese and incorporate the ingredients.
How do I shape the mixture into a ball?
Once mixed, use your hands to shape the mixture into a compact and smooth ball form.
How long does the cheese ball need to be refrigerated?
The cheese ball should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, or until it is fully chilled and firm.
How should the cheese ball be wrapped for storage?
You should wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the refrigerator.
What should I serve with the Tropical Delight Cheese Ball?
It is best served on a platter with an assortment of crackers.
Is this cheese ball sweet or savory?
It is a delightful combination of both, featuring sweet pineapple and savory vegetables and nuts.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 7 ingredients: cream cheese, crushed pineapple, celery, green pepper, red pepper, green onion, and pecans.
Can I use a different type of nut for the coating?
While the recipe specifies pecans, you could substitute them with walnuts or another preferred chopped nut.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, since it needs at least 2 hours to chill, it is an excellent make-ahead appetizer for parties.
Is the Tropical Delight Cheese Ball served warm or cold?
This appetizer should be served chilled.
What gives this cheese ball its tropical flavor?
The combination of crushed pineapple and the colorful mix of peppers provides its signature tropical taste.
How finely should the vegetables be chopped?
The celery and peppers should be diced, and the green onions and pecans should be finely chopped for a consistent texture.
Does this recipe contain any added sugar?
No extra sugar is added; the sweetness comes naturally from the crushed pineapple.
What is the primary base of the cheese ball?
The base is made from 16 ounces of cream cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains only dairy, fruit, vegetables, and nuts.
Can I omit the green onions?
Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the green onions without affecting the structure of the cheese ball.
How do I ensure the pecans stick to the cheese ball?
Roll the shaped cheese ball in a bowl of chopped pecans immediately after shaping while the cheese is still slightly tacky.
What is the best way to serve this at a party?
Place the chilled cheese ball in the center of a serving platter and surround it with various types of crackers for guests to help themselves.
Does this cheese ball have a crunch?
Yes, the diced celery, peppers, and the pecan coating provide a wonderful crunch that contrasts with the creamy center.
Is this a gluten-free appetizer?
The cheese ball ingredients themselves are gluten-free, but ensure you serve it with gluten-free crackers if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure it is very finely chopped and extremely well-drained to avoid excess moisture.