Hello, festive foodies! Welcome to another recipe that’s sure to bring a tropical twist to your holiday celebrations – Pineapple Christmas Balls! These no-bake treats are bursting with the sweet, juicy flavor of pineapple, combined with the soft crunch of graham crackers and a sprinkling of coconut. Easy to make, fun to roll, and perfect for parties, these Pineapple Christmas Balls will quickly become a beloved addition to your holiday dessert table.
Introduction
A refreshing alternative to traditional Christmas treats, Pineapple Christmas Balls bring a touch of the tropics to any holiday gathering. This no-bake recipe is ideal for busy holiday seasons and offers a unique combination of flavors that stand out against classic seasonal sweets. The crushed pineapple adds a juicy, fruity taste, while the graham cracker crumbs and sweetened coconut create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re looking to add a fresh, tropical dessert to your festivities, these Pineapple Christmas Balls are the perfect choice.
Ingredients for Pineapple Christmas Balls
To make these Pineapple Christmas Balls, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs for a gentle crunch
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut, adding tropical sweetness
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for a smooth, sweet base
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened for a creamy texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, to enhance flavor
- Extra shredded coconut (for rolling), for a festive, snow-like finish
Optional: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and texture.
How to Make Pineapple Christmas Balls – Step by Step
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delightful treats.
- Prepare the Pineapple Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained crushed pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and form a sticky, dough-like consistency. - Form the Balls:
Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion out about a tablespoon of the mixture. Roll it between your hands to form a small ball. Repeat until all of the mixture is used, creating approximately 24 balls. - Coat in Coconut:
Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut to create a snowy, festive coating. This gives the balls a classic holiday look and adds a pleasant coconut texture. - Chill the Balls:
Place the coconut-coated balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least an hour or until firm to the touch. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once the Pineapple Christmas Balls are chilled and set, arrange them on a serving platter. These festive treats are ready to enjoy!
Helpful Tips for Pineapple Christmas Balls
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly opened crushed pineapple and graham crackers provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid pineapple that’s been sitting out to prevent excess moisture.
- Chilling is Essential: For a firmer texture, refrigerate the mixture before rolling, or freeze the balls for a few minutes if you prefer a slightly firmer bite.
- Variations and Add-ins: Experiment with adding chopped dried cranberries or small chocolate chips for a unique flavor twist. The tangy cranberries add color and complement the pineapple beautifully.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pineapple Christmas Balls
- Drain the Pineapple Well: Too much moisture will make the mixture challenging to form into balls. Press the crushed pineapple through a sieve or cheesecloth for optimal results.
- Soft Butter is Key: Using softened butter (not melted) will ensure a smooth consistency without making the mixture too wet.
- Rolling Tip: If the mixture is too sticky to roll, lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar or chill the mixture for a few extra minutes.
Serving Suggestions for Pineapple Christmas Balls
These Pineapple Christmas Balls make a wonderful addition to any holiday dessert spread! Pair them with a hot cup of spiced tea or a cozy holiday latte to balance out the tropical sweetness. Arrange these treats on a festive platter alongside Christmas cookies, peppermint bark, or chocolate truffles for a colorful, eye-catching holiday dessert display.
Nutritional Information
These Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delicious holiday indulgence with a tropical twist. Each serving provides a sweet balance of fruit and coconut, making them a flavorful choice for your dessert table.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110 kcal per ball
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 40mg
Total Carbohydrates: 13g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 1g
Storage and Leftovers for Pineapple Christmas Balls
- Refrigeration: Store these balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Option: If you’d like to make them ahead of time, freeze the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and store for up to one month. Let thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Pineapple Christmas Balls
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure it’s finely chopped and thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture. - Can I make these without coconut?
Coconut adds essential texture, but you can try substituting with finely chopped nuts or extra graham cracker crumbs. - What other coatings can I use besides coconut?
Try rolling in finely chopped nuts, powdered sugar, or even sprinkles for a festive look! - Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! They can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
Related Recipes for Pineapple Christmas Ball Lovers
For more delicious no-bake treats and festive recipes, check out these links on Optimal Recipes:
Conclusion
Thank you for joining us in creating these delightful Pineapple Christmas Balls! With their tropical twist and easy preparation, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family. Try this recipe, share your thoughts in the comments, and let us know if you added any special twists. We’d love to hear how these treats bring a bit of sunshine to your holiday season!
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Pineapple Christmas Balls – Festive No-Bake Holiday Treat
Description
Hello, festive foodies! Welcome to another recipe that’s sure to bring a tropical twist to your holiday celebrations – Pineapple Christmas Balls! These no-bake treats are bursting with the sweet, juicy flavor of pineapple, combined with the soft crunch of graham crackers and a sprinkling of coconut. Easy to make, fun to roll, and perfect for parties, these Pineapple Christmas Balls will quickly become a beloved addition to your holiday dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs for a gentle crunch
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut, adding tropical sweetness
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for a smooth, sweet base
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened for a creamy texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, to enhance flavor
- Extra shredded coconut (for rolling), for a festive, snow-like finish
Optional: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and texture.
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained crushed pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and form a sticky, dough-like consistency. - Form the Balls:
Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion out about a tablespoon of the mixture. Roll it between your hands to form a small ball. Repeat until all of the mixture is used, creating approximately 24 balls. - Coat in Coconut:
Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut to create a snowy, festive coating. This gives the balls a classic holiday look and adds a pleasant coconut texture. - Chill the Balls:
Place the coconut-coated balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least an hour or until firm to the touch. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once the Pineapple Christmas Balls are chilled and set, arrange them on a serving platter. These festive treats are ready to enjoy!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly opened crushed pineapple and graham crackers provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid pineapple that’s been sitting out to prevent excess moisture.
- Chilling is Essential: For a firmer texture, refrigerate the mixture before rolling, or freeze the balls for a few minutes if you prefer a slightly firmer bite.
- Variations and Add-ins: Experiment with adding chopped dried cranberries or small chocolate chips for a unique flavor twist. The tangy cranberries add color and complement the pineapple beautifully.
