Dive into the festive season with Pineapple Christmas Balls, an easy-to-make dessert featuring cream cheese, crushed pineapple, coconut, graham crumbs, and pineapple jello. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these tropical-inspired treats are a unique twist on traditional sweets.
Every Christmas, my family looks forward to my Pineapple Christmas Balls. It all started a few years ago when I wanted to add a tropical twist to our holiday table. Tired of the usual cookies and cakes, I experimented with pineapple, cream cheese, and coconut. The result was a hit! These balls have since become a holiday tradition, reminding us of sunny days during the chilly winter season. They’re not just treats; they’re little orbs of joy that bring back memories of laughter and warmth every holiday season.
What makes these Pineapple Christmas Balls truly delightful?
The Pineapple Christmas Balls stand out for several reasons:
Tropical Twist: They bring a refreshing change from traditional holiday flavors, perfect for those craving something different.
No-Bake Ease: With no oven required, they are incredibly easy to make, saving time during the busy holiday season.
Versatility: They’re great for holiday parties, as a snack, or even as a unique homemade gift.
Kid-Friendly: The simple steps make it a fun activity for kids to join in the kitchen.
Diet-Friendly: They can be easily adapted for various dietary needs with simple substitutions.
Ingredients Notes for Pineapple Christmas Balls:
Preparing Pineapple Christmas Balls is a breeze, but here are some key notes on the ingredients:
Crushed Pineapple: Ensure it’s well-drained to avoid soggy balls.
Cream Cheese: Room-temperature cream cheese blends smoothly.
Desiccated Coconut: Unsweetened and fine variety works best for a delicate texture.
Graham Crumbs: They add a nice crunch; you can use homemade or store-bought.
Pineapple Jello Powder: Adds a burst of flavor; no need to prepare it, use it as a powder.
Recipe Breakdown:
Creating Pineapple Christmas Balls is a delightful and straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure every ball is as perfect as it can be:
Step 1: Start by beating the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth. This step is crucial for a creamy texture without lumps.
Step 2: Add the crushed pineapple, one cup of coconut, graham crumbs, and jello powder to the cream cheese. Blend these well to get a uniform mixture.
Step 3: Refrigerate the mixture for an hour to set, making it easier to shape the balls.
Step 4: Shape and roll the balls in the remaining coconut. This not only gives them their signature look but also an extra coconutty touch.
Step 5: Store them in the fridge until ready to serve. This step ensures they hold their shape and remain fresh.
Storage Options for Pineapple Christmas Balls:
These tropical treats are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Variations and Substitutions:
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free graham crumbs.
Nutty Flavor: Add chopped nuts for an extra crunch.
Chocolate Twist: Dip the balls in melted chocolate for a decadent version.
Different Jello Flavors: Experiment with other jello flavors like orange or cherry for variety.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
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.
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!
