Pineapple Hawaiian Cheese Ball
A decorative pineapple-themed cheese ball for summer gatherings or luau parties.
Servings: 1 Cheeseball
Ingredients
- 14 ounces cream cheese Philadelphia is best, soften
- 7 ounces shredded cheddar
- 7 slices bacon
- 1/2 fresh pineapple cored and peeled
- 11/2 tsp garlic powder optional
- 1/2 cup pretzels or salted nuts
- half a pineapple top for garnish
- crackers chips, or chopped vegetables, for serving
Instructions
- Peel and core the pineapple. Cut the pineapple into small cubes. Gently squeeze out excess juice through cheesecloth or a sieve.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Add chopped pineapple, garlic powder, and crispy bacon. Mix until smooth.
- Form the "pineapple". Place the mixture on plastic wrap. Form an oval shape, tapering toward the top - like a real pineapple. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight).
- Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator, and remove the plastic wrap. Place the ball on a serving board. Arrange pretzels to resemble pineapple skin. Place the cut top of the real pineapple as the top.
- Surround with crackers, fresh fruit, herbs, or flowers.
Notes
For a bold, zesty version, add finely chopped jalapeno, smoked cheese instead of cheddar, and a dash of hot pepper or a dash of sriracha.
For something sweet and exotic, try a tropical version: add canned pineapple chunks and some coconut to cream cheese. Lightly sweeten the mixture with honey or agave syrup. Top with coconut flakes and candied pineapple wedges.