Pineapple Christmas Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pineapple Christmas Balls are a fun and festive treat perfect for the holiday season. These no-bake, bite-sized delights combine the sweetness of pineapple with the crunchiness of nuts and a smooth, creamy center. They’re easy to make, packed with tropical flavor, and are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

crushed pineapple (drained)powdered sugarpecans or walnuts (chopped)unsweetened shredded coconutcream cheese (softened)vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
2. Add the crushed pineapple (make sure it’s drained well) and chopped nuts, then mix everything together.
3. Gradually add the shredded coconut, mixing until the dough begins to form a sticky, cohesive mixture.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
5. Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut to coat them.
6. Refrigerate the balls for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 20-25 balls.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add mini chocolate chips to the mixture for a sweet surprise inside.
• Use different nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts for variety.
• For a stronger pineapple flavor, add a little pineapple juice into the mixture.
• Roll the balls in colored sprinkles for extra holiday cheer.

Storage/Reheating

Store Pineapple Christmas Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pineapple works just as well as fresh as long as it’s well-drained.

Do I have to use nuts?
No, you can skip the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version.

Can I make these in advance?
Yes, these can be made a few days ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?
You can use mascarpone cheese for a slightly richer flavor, or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Can I add food coloring?
Yes, a drop of red or green food coloring can give them a festive touch.

Conclusion

Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delightful combination of tropical flavor and holiday spirit. Easy to make and wonderfully sweet, these no-bake treats will quickly become a favorite at your Christmas gatherings. Enjoy them as a light dessert or a fun snack to share with family and friends!

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