Looking for a festive, tropical-inspired dessert that’s quick and easy to make for the holidays? These Pineapple Christmas Balls are a no-bake treat that combines tangy pineapple, rich cream cheese, and a hint of coconut for a refreshing twist on a traditional holiday dessert. With only a few ingredients, they come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you’re short on time. The pineapple flavor, combined with the coconut flakes, makes these little bites a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 14 ounces canned crushed pineapple, drained very well
- 2 cups unsweetened fine coconut flakes
- 8 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 3 ounces pineapple Jell-O powder
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple Mixture:
- Step 1: Begin by draining the crushed pineapple thoroughly. It’s essential to get rid of as much liquid as possible to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet. You can use a fine mesh strainer to press out the excess juice. Set the drained pineapple aside.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the pineapple Jell-O powder. Using an electric mixer or a hand whisk, blend the cream cheese and Jell-O powder until smooth and well incorporated. The Jell-O powder adds not only flavor but also a festive pop of color to the mixture.
2. Incorporate the Pineapple and Coconut:
- Step 1: Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as the goal is to distribute the pineapple evenly without making the mixture too runny.
- Step 2: Next, add 1 cup of the unsweetened coconut flakes into the mixture. The coconut adds texture and a tropical flair, complementing the pineapple’s flavor. Mix gently until everything is evenly combined.
3. Chill the Mixture:
- Step 1: Place the mixture into the refrigerator to chill for about 30-60 minutes. This step allows the mixture to firm up, making it easier to roll into balls later.
4. Form the Pineapple Balls:
- Step 1: Once the mixture has chilled and firmed up, remove it from the refrigerator. Use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter).
- Step 2: After rolling each ball, place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Coat with Graham Cracker Crumbs and Coconut:
- Step 1: In a shallow bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of unsweetened coconut flakes with the graham cracker crumbs. Mix them well to ensure an even coating.
- Step 2: Roll each pineapple ball into the coconut and graham cracker mixture, gently pressing the crumbs and flakes onto the surface of each ball until fully coated.
6. Chill Again:
- Step 1: Once all the balls are formed and coated, place them back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to 1 hour. This second chilling helps the balls firm up even more, ensuring they hold their shape and are easy to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnishing Tip: For an extra festive touch, consider garnishing the Pineapple Christmas Balls with a drizzle of melted white chocolate or even a sprinkle of edible glitter before serving.
- Presentation: These treats look lovely arranged on a holiday platter or displayed in mini cupcake liners to make them look even more elegant and festive.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover Pineapple Christmas Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for the busy holiday season.
- Freeze: You can also freeze the balls for up to 1 month. Simply let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- Use Flavored Coconut: For a twist on the flavor, consider using toasted coconut flakes or sweetened coconut flakes if you prefer a sweeter taste.
- Add a Nutty Crunch: If you enjoy a bit of crunch, try mixing finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the graham cracker crumb coating for added texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: The pineapple Jell-O powder provides sweetness, but if you prefer a less sweet treat, you can reduce the amount of Jell-O or use a sugar-free version.
These Pineapple Christmas Balls are an easy-to-make, no-bake treat that brings a burst of tropical flavor to your holiday dessert table. With just five simple ingredients, this dessert is perfect for anyone who loves pineapple and coconut flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just need a sweet treat for the family, these delightful little bites are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
