Pineapple Christmas Balls Recipe

Introduction

Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delightful, no-bake treat perfect for holiday gatherings. These sweet, creamy bites combine tropical pineapple with rich cream cheese, coconut, and crunchy pecans for a festive snack everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed pineapple
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Drain the crushed pineapple well to remove excess moisture.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the drained pineapple to the cream cheese mixture and stir until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls using your hands or a spoon.
5. Step 5: Roll each ball in shredded coconut and then in the chopped pecans to coat evenly.
6. Step 6: Place the balls on a tray and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Ensure the pineapple is thoroughly drained to prevent the balls from becoming soggy.
• Swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer a different nut flavor or texture.
• These can be prepared up to a day in advance, making them great for holiday party prep.

Storage

Store the pineapple balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, you can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for extended periods to maintain texture and freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used if finely crushed and well-drained. Be sure to remove as much juice as possible to avoid sogginess.

Are these suitable for freezing?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese and pineapple mixture may change and become watery after thawing.

Pineapple Christmas Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.8 from 102 reviews

Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delightful no-bake holiday treat combining creamy cream cheese, tropical crushed pineapple, crunchy pecans, and shredded coconut. These sweet, bite-sized balls make a festive and refreshing appetizer or dessert that’s quick to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 balls 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Drain Pineapple: Thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple to remove excess juice, ensuring the mixture won’t be soggy.
2. Mix Cream Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Pineapple: Fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple to the cream cheese mixture, mixing gently until evenly combined.
4. Form Balls: Using your hands or a small spoon, shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls.
5. Coat Balls: Roll each ball first in shredded coconut, then in chopped pecans, ensuring an even coating for texture and flavor.
6. Chill: Place the coated balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, enhancing their flavor and texture before serving.

Notes

• Ensure the pineapple is well drained to prevent sogginess in the balls.
• Walnuts can be substituted for pecans if preferred.
• These can be prepared a day ahead to save time and allow flavors to meld.

Keywords: Pineapple Christmas Balls, holiday treats, no bake desserts, cream cheese appetizers, festive appetizers, coconut pecan balls