Pineapple Christmas Balls Recipe
Introduction
Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delightful, no-bake treat that combines tropical flavors with creamy sweetness. These festive bites are perfect for holiday gatherings and come together quickly with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 14 oz canned crushed pineapple (well-drained)
- 2 cups unsweetened fine coconut flakes
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 3 oz pineapple Jell-O powder
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth.
- Step 2: Add the well-drained crushed pineapple, half of the coconut flakes, pineapple Jell-O powder, and graham cracker crumbs. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Step 3: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow it to firm up.
- Step 4: After chilling, divide the mixture into 24 equal portions. Shape each portion into a small ball using your hands.
- Step 5: Roll each ball in the remaining coconut flakes until fully coated. Place the balls back in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, try adding finely chopped nuts to the mixture before chilling.
- If you prefer a sweeter treat, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on the coconut flakes before rolling the balls.
- Use crushed graham crackers if you want a coarser crumb for a bit of crunch.
Storage
Store the pineapple Christmas balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month—thaw in the refrigerator before serving. No reheating is needed as these are best enjoyed chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these pineapple balls ahead of time?
Yes, these can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator to let flavors meld and maintain their shape.
Can I substitute the pineapple Jell-O powder?
You can substitute with a similar pineapple or tropical-flavored gelatin powder, but avoid using unflavored gelatin or it will change the texture and flavor.
PrintPineapple Christmas Balls Recipe
Pineapple Christmas Balls are a festive and delightful no-bake treat combining creamy cream cheese, tangy crushed pineapple, and sweet Jell-O powder, coated in toasted coconut flakes. Perfect for holiday parties, these bite-sized morsels offer a refreshing and tropical twist to your seasonal dessert spread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls (serves 6) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 14 oz canned crushed pineapple (well-drained)
- 2 cups unsweetened fine coconut flakes
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 3 oz pineapple Jell-O powder
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the well-drained crushed pineapple, half of the coconut flakes, pineapple Jell-O powder, and graham cracker crumbs to the cream cheese. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined into a uniform mixture.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour. This step helps the flavors meld and firms up the mixture, making it easier to shape.
- Shape the Balls: After chilling, divide the mixture into 24 equal portions. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, round balls.
- Coat with Coconut Flakes: Roll each ball in the remaining coconut flakes to coat the exterior evenly, adding a delightful texture and flavor.
- Final Chill: Place the coated balls in the refrigerator until ready to serve, allowing them to firm up further for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- Softening the cream cheese at room temperature aids in easy mixing and smooth texture.
- The recipe yields 24 balls, but serves 6 assuming 4 balls per person.
- For variation, try using sweetened coconut flakes or adding chopped nuts inside the mixture for extra crunch.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: pineapple Christmas balls, holiday dessert, no-bake dessert, cream cheese treats, coconut balls, pineapple Jell-O recipe, festive snacks
