Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Mini Cheese Balls

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Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Mini Cheese Balls — thank you so much for being here, truly! It warms my heart every time you join me in the kitchen, especially when we’re diving into something as festive, fun, and downright irresistible as these mini cheese balls. I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! These little beauties are creamy, sweet, tangy, crunchy, and absolutely holiday-ready. Anything but boring!!

And before we jump into all the delicious details, make sure to subscribe so you never miss a new recipe. I love sending my favorite easy, crowd-pleasing ideas straight to your inbox — especially during Christmas cooking season!

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Mini Cheese Balls

These mini cheese balls are the perfect holiday appetizer:

  • Festive colors — bright red cranberries, golden pineapple, warm toasty pecans
  • Perfectly portioned — no slicing or scooping, just grab-and-enjoy
  • Sweet + savory flavor combo that everyone loves
  • Ultra creamy inside + crunchy outside
  • Make-ahead friendly — stress-free for holiday hosting
  • Adorable on any grazing board

What Do These Mini Cheese Balls Taste Like?

Oh my goodness… heavenly.
You get the smooth richness of cream cheese, the juicy sweetness of pineapple, the tart pop of cranberries, and that toasted pecan crunch that ties EVERYTHING together. Every bite is bright, creamy, nutty, and full of holiday cheer.

Think: the charm of a cheese ball, but cuter, tastier, and way easier to serve!

Benefits of Making This Recipe

  • Uses simple, affordable ingredients
  • Travels well to parties and potlucks
  • Easy to batch for large gatherings
  • Naturally gluten-free
  • Makes your snack board look professionally catered

Ingredients for Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Mini Cheese Balls

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1–2 tbsp green onions, minced
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 cup finely chopped toasted pecans
  • Pretzel sticks or crackers for serving

Tools You’ll Need

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Spatula or electric mixer
  • Cutting board + sharp knife
  • Small cookie scoop or spoon
  • Baking sheet or tray
  • Parchment paper
  • Plastic wrap

Additions & Substitutions

Additions

  • Dash of honey for extra sweetness
  • Jalapeños for a sweet-heat flavor
  • Fresh chives or parsley for herbal brightness
  • Bacon bits for smoky crunch

Substitutions

  • Use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter version
  • Swap pecans with almonds or walnuts
  • Replace dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins
  • Use Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a milder flavor
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How to Make Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Mini Cheese Balls

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix the base
    In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, drained pineapple, chopped cranberries, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly incorporated.
  2. Chill the mixture
    Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 30–45 minutes so it firms up and becomes easy to roll.
  3. Shape into mini balls
    Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch). Roll between your palms to shape.
  4. Coat in pecans
    Spread the toasted chopped pecans on a plate. Roll each cheese ball until completely coated.
  5. Final chill
    Arrange the mini cheese balls on a parchment-lined tray and chill for another 30 minutes.
  6. Serve
    Insert pretzel sticks into the top for easy grabbing (optional but adorable!). Serve with crackers, veggies, or on a holiday party board.

What to Serve with These Mini Cheese Balls

  • Ritz or buttery club crackers
  • Pretzel crisps
  • Apple slices
  • Pita chips
  • Grapes and fresh fruit
  • Charcuterie meats
  • Holiday snack boards or grazing tables

Tips for Perfect Mini Cheese Balls

  • Drain pineapple VERY well — squeeze out excess moisture if needed.
  • Toast the pecans — this makes the flavor pop.
  • Chill before shaping — reduces stickiness and keeps shape.
  • Use gloves if your hands tend to run warm.
  • Insert pretzel sticks just before serving so they don’t soften.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Do not freeze — texture will change.
  • For best crunch, add pretzels and roll in pecans shortly before serving.

General Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Servings: 18–22 mini cheese balls

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these mini cheese balls ahead of time?

Yes! Make up to 24 hours ahead. Add pretzels right before serving.

What if the mixture is too soft?

Chill longer — an extra 20–30 minutes helps firm it up.

Can I make these nut-free?

Absolutely — roll them in:

  • Crushed pretzels
  • Toasted breadcrumbs
  • Shredded coconut
  • Crushed crackers

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, but chop finely and drain thoroughly.

Are these good for potlucks?

They’re PERFECT — portable, pretty, and always a hit.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Pineapple Pecan Mini Cheese Balls are festive, creamy, crunchy little bites of pure holiday joy. They bring all the charm of a classic cheese ball, but in the cutest grab-and-go size that guests absolutely love. Simple ingredients, minimal work, and a whole lot of flavor — the best kind of Christmas appetizer!

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