Pineapple Christmas Balls

Pineapple Christmas Balls are a festive, no-bake treat that brings tropical flavor to your holiday dessert spread. With creamy pineapple, sweet coconut, and tangy cream cheese, these bite-sized delights are as easy to make as they are irresistible perfect for gifting, parties, or a quick holiday indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well (reserve a bit of juice if needed)
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup shredded coconut (plus more for rolling)

Instructions

1. Prep the pineapple: Drain the crushed pineapple well using a fine mesh strainer. Gently press out excess liquid it should be moist but not watery.
2. Mix the filling: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix until creamy. Fold in the drained pineapple and 1 cup of shredded coconut.
   • If too soft to roll, refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to firm up.
3. Form the balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture per ball and roll between your palms until smooth.
4. Coat in coconut: Roll each ball in shredded coconut to cover completely.
5. Chill: Place on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to help them set and intensify the flavor.

Variations

• Flavor twist: Add ½ teaspoon vanilla or almond extract for a fragrant touch.
• Crunchy upgrade: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Cherry surprise: Add a small piece of maraschino cherry in the center of each ball.
• Toasted coconut coating: Use golden toasted coconut for a deeper, nutty flavor.
• Extra sweet: Mix in a little more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter bite.

Cooking Notes

• Drain well: Excess moisture from the pineapple can make the mixture too soft to roll.
• Chilling time: Chilling helps the texture firm up and makes coating easier.
• Serving temp: Best served cold or slightly chilled for that truffle-like texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday platter: Serve with chocolate truffles, rum balls, or snowball cookies for a festive variety.
• Gift idea: Package in mini cupcake liners and box them as edible holiday gifts.
• Party snack: Add to dessert boards with other bite-sized sweets.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving — 1 ball, approx.)

• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 35mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month thaw in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pineapple?
   Yes, but make sure to finely crush and drain it very well fresh pineapple has more liquid than canned.
2. Can I make them dairy-free?
   Yes use vegan cream cheese and plant-based coconut yogurt to achieve a similar creamy texture.
3. Can I roll them in something other than coconut?
   Try finely chopped nuts, graham cracker crumbs, or powdered sugar for variety.

Conclusion

These Pineapple Christmas Balls are a festive fusion of tropical and traditional flavors creamy, tangy, and delightfully sweet. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, they’ll quickly become a cherished holiday favorite.

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