If you’re looking for a festive bite-sized treat that will instantly transport you to holiday paradise, Pineapple Christmas Balls are your ticket! Imagine the sweet tang of pineapple meeting the toasty richness of coconut and the gentle crunch of nuts, all brought together in a soft, no-bake confection. Every cheerful little ball is pure magic — quick to whip up, loaded with tropical flavors, and adorable on any holiday platter. These treats are guaranteed to stand out at cookie swaps, family gatherings, or even wrapped up as thoughtful homemade gifts. Once you try Pineapple Christmas Balls, they’re bound to become a new holiday favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- extra shredded coconut for rolling
How to Make Pineapple Christmas Balls
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients Together
Grab a medium mixing bowl and add the well-drained crushed pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture becomes evenly mixed and begins to hold together. It’s supposed to be a little sticky, but not wet — if it’s too soft, sprinkle in a few more graham cracker crumbs.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Pop your bowl in the refrigerator and chill the mixture for about 30 minutes. This quick step gives the mixture time to firm up, making it so much easier to shape into perfect Pineapple Christmas Balls later. It’s a small wait, but well worth it for that ideal texture!
Step 3: Shape Into Balls
Once chilled, use a spoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture. Roll each piece between your palms to form 1-inch balls. Don’t worry if they’re not all exactly the same — a little variety just adds to the homemade charm.
Step 4: Roll in Coconut
Pour some extra shredded coconut onto a plate. Roll each ball in the coconut until fully coated. This not only makes Pineapple Christmas Balls look extra festive and “snowy” but adds even more wonderful coconut flavor.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Place the finished balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This final chill really helps them set, turning them into easy-to-serve party nibbles that hold their shape beautifully.
How to Serve Pineapple Christmas Balls
Garnishes
For a truly festive touch, sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar just before serving, or nestle each Pineapple Christmas Ball in a mini cupcake liner. Edible glitter or a tiny piece of dried pineapple on top can also make them pop on your dessert table.
Side Dishes
Pineapple Christmas Balls are a breeze to pair! Try offering them alongside a platter of chocolate-dipped strawberries, classic holiday cookies, or spiced nuts. Their light, fruity flavor is a lovely contrast to richer holiday treats.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the balls in the shape of a Christmas tree on a large platter, decorate with mint leaves and dried cranberries, or stack them on a tiered dessert stand for dramatic effect. They’re also adorable packaged up by the half-dozen in clear gift bags tied with ribbon for a sweet holiday take-home gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any extras into an airtight container and tuck them into the fridge. Pineapple Christmas Balls will happily keep for up to a week — though good luck making them last that long! Their flavor even deepens over a couple of days.
Freezing
These treats freeze beautifully. Simply layer the balls with parchment paper in a storage container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
No heating is needed for Pineapple Christmas Balls! Just bring them out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to take off the chill. If enjoyed from frozen, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes first.
FAQs
Can I substitute the graham cracker crumbs with something gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap in gluten-free graham-style crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies; just check that they’re finely ground for the best texture.
What kind of coconut should I use for rolling?
Sweetened shredded coconut is ideal for rolling, adding that snowy look and extra sweetness. Unsweetened coconut works, too, if you want a slightly less sweet finish.
Do Pineapple Christmas Balls have to be refrigerated?
Since there’s fresh fruit involved, it’s best to keep them chilled to maintain their shape and avoid spoilage. Serve straight from the fridge or allow to sit at room temperature briefly for the softest bite.
Can I make these nut-free?
Yes! Just leave out the nuts or replace them with more coconut or crushed seeds for a similar crunch. This makes them safe for nut-allergic friends and family.
Can I add other flavorings?
Absolutely! For an extra holiday kick, try stirring in rum extract, orange zest, or even a pinch of cinnamon. These little tweaks can make your Pineapple Christmas Balls truly unique.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in search of a holiday treat that’s easy, nostalgic, and guaranteed to make everyone smile, Pineapple Christmas Balls are the answer. Their tropical flavor, no-bake simplicity, and charming appearance never fail to brighten up the season. Give them a try — you just might find yourself making these cheerful little bites all year round!
Print
Pineapple Christmas Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 20 balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Pineapple Christmas Balls are delightful no-bake treats perfect for the holiday season. Made with crushed pineapple, coconut, and nuts, these sweet and tropical bites are easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- extra shredded coconut for rolling
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Once chilled, scoop out small portions and roll into 1-inch balls using your hands.
Stir until well combined and the mixture holds together. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
Roll each ball in additional shredded coconut to coat. Place on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid soggy balls.
- You can use toasted coconut for a deeper flavor, or add a splash of rum extract for a festive twist.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
