Whip up Pineapple Christmas Balls with cream cheese, crushed pineapple, coconut, graham crumbs, and pineapple jello—tropical and festive!
Every Christmas, I find myself chasing that elusive mix of festive nostalgia and something a little unexpected. A few years ago, I decided to experiment with tropical flavors to break away from the usual lineup of sugar cookies and fruitcake. The result? These Pineapple Christmas Balls. They’re like little bursts of sunshine in the middle of winter! The first time I made them, my kids giggled at the idea of “pineapple snowballs,” and my husband couldn’t stop sneaking extras from the fridge. Now, they’ve become a tradition—a sweet reminder of summer fun during the coziest time of year. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug, and honestly, we all need a bit of that during the holidays, don’t we?
Why You’ll Love These Pineapple Christmas Balls
What makes these treats stand out in a sea of holiday desserts? Let’s break it down:
- Tropical Twist: These balls bring a fresh, fruity flavor that’s a refreshing change from the usual holiday spices and chocolate. Pineapple and coconut together? It’s like a mini vacation in every bite.
- No-Bake Convenience: Who has time to bake during the holiday madness? These are a lifesaver—quick, easy, and oven-free.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: The simple steps make this a great recipe for little helpers. Rolling the balls in coconut is basically edible crafting!
- Diet-Friendly Options: With a few substitutions, these can be made vegan or gluten-free, so no one has to miss out on the fun.
- Versatility: Perfect as a party snack, dessert, or even a homemade gift. Just pop them in a pretty box, and you’ve got an instant crowd-pleaser.
Ingredient Notes
Making these Pineapple Christmas Balls is a breeze, but there are a few tips to make sure everything turns out perfectly:
- Crushed Pineapple: Be sure to really drain the pineapple. Too much juice can make the mixture too wet to roll into balls. A quick press with a paper towel can work wonders.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for smooth mixing. If you forgot to take it out of the fridge ahead of time (we’ve all been there), try cutting it into smaller chunks and microwaving it for 10 seconds at a time until soft—but not melted!
- Desiccated Coconut: Go for unsweetened, fine-textured coconut. It gives the balls a delicate look and keeps the sweetness balanced.
- Graham Crumbs: These add a subtle crunch and help bind the mixture. Store-bought crumbs work great, but if you’re feeling extra, crushing your own graham crackers is easy and satisfying.
- Pineapple Jello Powder: Use it dry—no need to prepare it. It adds a concentrated burst of pineapple flavor that ties the whole recipe together.
How To Make Pineapple Christmas Balls
Making these festive treats is almost as fun as eating them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to keep things stress-free:
- Prep the Cream Cheese: Start by placing your softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. If it’s not soft yet, cut it into small cubes and let it sit for 15 minutes, or give it a few short bursts in the microwave. Beat it with a mixer until it’s smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed!
- Mix It All Together: Add the crushed pineapple (drain it well first!), one cup of coconut, graham crumbs, and the pineapple jello powder to the cream cheese. Blend everything together until it’s evenly mixed. The mixture should be thick and sticky but not runny.
- Chill Out: Pop the bowl in the fridge for about an hour. This step is super important because it firms up the mixture, making it easier to roll into balls. Use this time to clean up—or sneak a taste test. I won’t tell.
- Shape the Balls: Use a tablespoon to scoop out the mixture and roll it between your palms to form balls. This part is great to do with kids—it’s messy, but in the fun way! Roll each ball in the remaining coconut until fully coated.
- Store and Serve: Arrange the finished balls on a tray or in a container and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. They taste best chilled and hold their shape beautifully.
Storage Options
These delightful treats are easy to store, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
Want To Save This Recipe?
- Refrigerator: Store the balls in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Layer them with parchment paper if you’re stacking to avoid sticking.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month. Just place the balls on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Thaw them in the fridge for a few hours before serving, and they’ll taste just as good as the day you made them.
Variations and Substitutions:
Feeling creative? Here are a few ways to switch things up:
- Dairy-Free: Swap regular cream cheese for a dairy-free version to make these vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crumbs, and you’re good to go!
- Nutty Additions: Mix in finely chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor. Almonds or pecans work beautifully.
- Chocolate Lovers: Dip the balls in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist. White chocolate pairs especially well with the tropical flavors.
- Jello Flavor Swap: Try orange, cherry, or even lime jello powder for a fun variation. Each one brings a unique vibe to the recipe.
What to Serve or Pair with Pineapple Christmas Balls
These sweet bites are versatile enough to shine on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can take them to the next level:
- Dessert Platters: Add them to a holiday dessert spread with cookies, brownies, and truffles. They’ll stand out with their tropical flair.
- Fruit Trays: Pair them with fresh fruit like strawberries, kiwi, and orange slices for a refreshing contrast.
- Cocktails: These balls are delightful with a holiday punch or a glass of sparkling wine. The tropical notes complement fruity drinks beautifully.
- Coffee or Tea: Serve them with a warm beverage for a cozy afternoon treat. A spiced chai latte or coconut-flavored coffee would be perfect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a suggested tropical twist to this recipe?
For an extra tropical vibe, try adding finely chopped dried mango or papaya to the mixture. You could even sprinkle a little lime zest over the finished balls for a tangy kick.
How do I soften cream cheese for this recipe?
If you forgot to take the cream cheese out ahead of time, don’t worry! Cut it into smaller chunks and microwave it in 10-second bursts until soft. Alternatively, let it sit in a warm spot in your kitchen for 15-20 minutes. Just make sure it’s soft enough to blend smoothly but not melted.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These are perfect for prepping ahead. Make them a few days in advance and store them in the fridge. They actually taste better after sitting for a day, as the flavors meld together.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, you can! Freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge, and they’re ready to go.
Are they kid-friendly?
Totally! Kids love rolling the balls in coconut, and it’s a fun way to get them involved in holiday baking. Just be prepared for a little mess—it’s part of the fun.
What do you think? Ready to bring a little tropical flair to your holiday table? Let me know how yours turn out—I can’t wait to hear your twist on this festive favorite! 😊
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Pineapple Christmas Balls
Ingredients
- 398 mL of meticulously drained canned crushed pineapple.
- 8 ounces of cream cheese allowed to reach room temperature.
- 2 cups of unsweetened fine desiccated coconut.
- 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs.
- 3 ounces of pineapple-flavored gelatin powder.
Instructions
- Cream Cheese Preparation: Begin by placing the cream cheese, which should be at room temperature, in a large mixing bowl. Employ an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until it achieves a smooth and lump-free texture.
- Combining Ingredients: To the cream cheese, add the drained crushed pineapple, one cup of desiccated coconut, graham cracker crumbs, and the pineapple flavored gelatin powder. It is important to note that the gelatin powder should be used in its dry form, without prior preparation.
- Mixing: Thoroughly mix all the ingredients until a uniform mixture is formed.
- Refrigeration: Transfer the bowl into a refrigerator and let the mixture set for approximately one hour. This step is crucial for the mixture to achieve the necessary consistency for shaping.
- Shaping the Balls: After the refrigeration period, remove the mixture from the refrigerator. Utilize a tablespoon to portion the mixture. Shape each portion into a ball. Proceed to roll each ball in the remaining desiccated coconut to coat them evenly.
- Storage for Serving: Place the completed Pineapple Christmas Balls in an appropriate food-safe container. Keep them refrigerated until they are ready to be served.
Notes
- Replace Graham Crumbs: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs instead of regular graham crumbs. Many brands offer gluten-free options that mimic the taste and texture of traditional graham crackers. Make sure to check the packaging to confirm that it's certified gluten-free.
- Check Other Ingredients: While the other ingredients (cream cheese, crushed pineapple, coconut, and pineapple jello powder) are generally gluten-free, it's always a good idea to check the labels for any hidden gluten or cross-contamination warnings, especially if you are highly sensitive to gluten.
Nutrition
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
One Response
Wow awesome treat. Have to work on it. TKJU for the receipe.