That looks like a Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball — a sweet-and-savory party appetizer. Here’s the full detailed recipe plus a helpful Q&A section.

🍍 Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball

🧀 Ingredients

For the cheese ball:

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 2–3 green onions, finely chopped

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt (optional, adjust to taste)

For coating:

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

• Optional: 2–3 tbsp extra crushed pineapple (very well drained)

🔥 Instructions

1️⃣ Drain the Pineapple Properly

• Place crushed pineapple in a fine strainer.

• Press firmly with a spoon or paper towel to remove as much juice as possible.

• This step is VERY important to prevent a runny cheese ball.

2️⃣ Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine:

• Softened cream cheese

• Drained pineapple

• Shredded cheddar

• Green onions

• Garlic powder

• Pepper

• Salt (if using)

Mix until fully combined and smooth.

3️⃣ Chill

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours.

• This helps it firm up for shaping.

4️⃣ Shape the Ball

• Remove from fridge.

• Using plastic wrap, form into a ball shape.

• Chill again for 30–60 minutes if soft.

5️⃣ Coat with Pecans

• Spread chopped toasted pecans on a plate.

• Roll the cheese ball in pecans until fully coated.

• Gently press pecans into the surface.

6️⃣ Serve

Place on a serving plate and serve with:

• Crackers

• Pretzels

• Crostini

• Apple slices

• Celery sticks

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

❓ How do I keep it from being too soft?

✔ Make sure pineapple is VERY well drained.
✔ Use full-fat cream cheese.
✔ Chill before and after shaping.

❓ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes!
You can make it 1–2 days in advance.
Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator.
Add pecans the day of serving for maximum crunch.

❓ Can I freeze it?

It’s not recommended. The texture can become grainy once thawed.

❓ Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, but:

• Finely chop it.

• Drain VERY thoroughly.

• Pat dry with paper towels.

❓ What can I substitute for pecans?

• Walnuts

• Slivered almonds

• Bacon bits (for savory version)

• Everything bagel seasoning

❓ Can I make it sweeter?

Yes! Add:

• 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  OR

• 1 tablespoon honey

❓ Can I add meat?

Absolutely:

• Finely chopped ham

• Crumbled bacon

❓ How long does it last?

Stored airtight in the fridge:
3–4 days