Appetizers

Mini Pineapple Cranberry Cheese Balls with Pecans

Mini Pineapple Cranberry Cheese Balls with Pecans are a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors that make for an irresistible appetizer or snack. These bite-sized treats burst with tropical pineapple, tart cranberries, and rich cream cheese, all rolled in toasted pecans for added crunch. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, summer barbecues, or just a cozy night in with friends. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these cheese balls are sure to be a hit at your next event!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 130
Protein: 2g per serving
Carbohydrates: 10g per serving
Fat: 10g per serving
Fiber: 1g per serving
Sugar: 5g per serving
Sodium: 120mg per serving

Why Make This Mini Pineapple Cranberry Cheese Balls with Pecans

These Mini Pineapple Cranberry Cheese Balls with Pecans are not just visually appealing; they offer a burst of flavors that excite the palate. The creamy texture of the cheese perfectly balances the sweet tang of pineapple and the chewy goodness of cranberries. Plus, with the added crunch of pecans, every bite feels like a delightful journey of textures. They are quick to prepare and can be made in advance, making them an ideal choice for busy hosts looking to impress their guests with minimal effort.

How to Make Mini Pineapple Cranberry Cheese Balls with Pecans

Ingredients:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crushed pineapple, dried cranberries, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well blended.
Step 2: Chilling

Cover and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Forming Balls

Once chilled, form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) from the mixture.
Step 4: Coating

Roll each cheese ball in chopped pecans until coated.
Step 5: Serving

Place the cheese balls on a serving platter and refrigerate until ready to serve.

How to Serve Mini Pineapple Cranberry Cheese Balls with Pecans

Serve these delightful cheese balls chilled on a platter for a beautiful presentation. They pair wonderfully with a selection of crackers or fresh fruit. For an added touch, drizzle a little honey over the top for extra sweetness or garnish with fresh mint for a pop of color. These cheese balls are also great for parties as they can be picked up easily and enjoyed in just one bite!

How to Store Mini Pineapple Cranberry Cheese Balls with Pecans

Keep any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days. If you’re planning to make them ahead of time, you can form the balls and store them uncoated in the fridge. Just roll them in pecans just before serving for maximum crunch!

Expert Tips for Perfect Mini Pineapple Cranberry Cheese Balls with Pecans

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Crushed Pineapple: Drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which could make the mixture too soft.
Variability: Feel free to mix in other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or substitute different dried fruits like apricots or raisins based on your preferences.
Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cheese balls hold their shape when rolling.

Delicious Variations

Spiced Version: Add 1/4 tsp of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
Herbed Cheese Balls: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives or thyme into the cheese mixture for a savory twist.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a sweet treat, drizzle melted chocolate over the cheese balls before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, just make sure to finely chop the fresh pineapple and drain any excess juice.
How long can these cheese balls sit out?
They are safe to sit out for about 2 hours at room temperature, perfect for parties!
Can I freeze these cheese balls?
Yes, you can freeze them uncoated. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and coat in pecans just before serving.
What can I serve with these cheese balls?
They pair well with crackers, bread slices, or fresh fruits like apple slices and grapes.
What if I have nut allergies?
You can omit the pecans or roll them in crushed pretzels or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a different texture.

Conclusion

These Mini Pineapple Cranberry Cheese Balls with Pecans are not only delicious but also an easy-to-make treat that everyone will love. Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors ensure they will be a hit at any gathering. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends or family over, and enjoy creating and sharing this tasty recipe! You’ll find that they’re not just a gorgeous dish for your plate but also a joy to eat! Happy cooking!