Pineapple Christmas Balls Recipe
Introduction
These Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delightful and refreshing treat perfect for holiday gatherings. Creamy, fruity, and coated in coconut, they offer a sweet bite that’s both easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups crushed pineapple, thoroughly drained
- 2 cups unsweetened, desiccated coconut, divided
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 (3-ounce) packet pineapple-flavored gelatin mix
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Gently stir in the drained pineapple, 1 cup of desiccated coconut, graham cracker crumbs, and the pineapple gelatin mix. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for about an hour, or until firm enough to handle.
- Step 4: Once chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and gently roll them into small balls using your hands.
- Step 5: Roll each ball in the remaining coconut until fully coated.
- Step 6: Arrange the pineapple balls on a tray and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet and difficult to shape.
- For extra texture, try adding chopped nuts like macadamias or pecans into the mixture.
- You can substitute the pineapple gelatin with lemon or orange gelatin for a different flavor twist.
Storage
Store the pineapple balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best served chilled. If needed, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. This actually helps the flavors meld and makes rolling the balls easier.
Is it possible to freeze Pineapple Christmas Balls?
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese and gelatin mixture, causing it to become watery when thawed.
PrintPineapple Christmas Balls Recipe
Pineapple Christmas Balls are a festive and refreshing no-bake treat combining creamy cream cheese, juicy pineapple, coconut, graham cracker crumbs, and pineapple gelatin. Perfectly chilled and coated in coconut, these bite-sized dessert balls offer a sweet, tangy flavor and delightful texture ideal for holiday celebrations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 balls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups crushed pineapple, thoroughly drained
- 2 cups unsweetened, desiccated coconut, divided
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 (3-ounce) packet pineapple-flavored gelatin mix
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy to create a uniform base.
- Combine ingredients: Gently stir in the thoroughly drained crushed pineapple, 1 cup of desiccated coconut, graham cracker crumbs, and pineapple gelatin mix until all ingredients are evenly blended.
- Chill mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about one hour, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle for shaping.
- Form balls: Once chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and gently roll them into small balls with your hands.
- Coat in coconut: Roll each ball in the remaining cup of desiccated coconut until fully coated creating a festive outer layer.
- Final chill and serve: Arrange the pineapple balls on a tray, refrigerate until ready to serve, and enjoy this refreshing holiday treat.
Notes
- Ensure pineapple is thoroughly drained to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
- For firmer balls, chill the mixture longer if needed.
- Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Store the finished balls covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
- These are excellent bite-sized desserts for parties and holiday gatherings.
Keywords: pineapple balls, Christmas dessert, no-bake dessert, holiday treats, cream cheese pineapple balls, coconut coated balls
