Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the chill of winter settles in and twinkling lights adorn our homes, there’s something magical about the treats we share during this festive time. That’s where my Pineapple Christmas Balls come in, a delightful no-bake dessert that brings a tropical twist to your holiday gatherings. Beyond their charming appearance, these little bites are both quick to prepare and completely satisfying, thanks to creamy goodness paired with a satisfying crunch from pecans. With just a handful of vibrant ingredients, you can create a festive treat that not only pleases the palate but also evokes warm memories of Christmases past. Who wouldn’t want to indulge in a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to devour? Ready to dive into this festive recipe? Let’s get rolling! Why Are Pineapple Christmas Balls So Irresistible? Tropical Twist: The combination of pineapple and coconut brings a refreshing flavor that stands out among traditional holiday desserts. Effortless Preparation: With no baking required, this recipe is perfect for those busy holiday schedules—just mix, chill, and enjoy! Crowd Pleaser: These delightful bites will impress guests of all ages, making them a highlight of your festive gatherings. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap pecans for your favorite nuts, or add a splash of lime for a zesty kick—customization is key! Memorable Moments: Each bite is like a warm holiday hug, creating cherished memories that linger long after the last ball is gone. Delight in these Pineapple Christmas Balls as a sweet reminder of the joy and togetherness this season brings! Pineapple Christmas Balls Ingredients For the Mixture Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and richness; can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist. Crushed Pineapple – Contributes sweetness and moisture; drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps bind the ingredients; adjust to taste based on desired sweetness. For the Coating Coconut Flakes – Adds texture and tropical flavor; unsweetened coconut is recommended for less sweetness. Chopped Pecans – Offers crunch and nutty flavor; can replace with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty profile. Optional Flavor Enhancers Lime Juice – Enhances flavor with acidity; a splash can brighten the overall taste of your Pineapple Christmas Balls. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pineapple Christmas Balls Step 1: Prepare the Mixture In a medium mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of drained crushed pineapple, and 1 cup of powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and well blended, about 3–5 minutes. The mixture should appear creamy with no lumps, indicating it’s ready for the next step. Step 2: Incorporate Flavors Gently fold in 1 cup of coconut flakes and ½ cup of chopped pecans into the creamy mixture. If desired, add a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist. Use a spatula to combine the ingredients until they are evenly distributed, ensuring every bite of the Pineapple Christmas Balls will burst with flavor. Step 3: Chill the Mixture Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. This chilling time allows the mixture to firm up, making it easier to handle and shape into balls later. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is slightly set but still spreadable. Step 4: Form Balls After chilling, remove the mixture from the refrigerator. Using your hands, scoop out small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into smooth balls. Aim for a uniform size so that your Pineapple Christmas Balls cook evenly and provide a delightful bite every time. Step 5: Coat the Balls Place additional coconut flakes and chopped pecans in separate shallow bowls. Roll each ball in the coconut and then in the pecans, ensuring that they are evenly coated for added texture and flavor. The coating not only makes your Pineapple Christmas Balls look festive but also adds a delightful crunch. Step 6: Chill Again Transfer the coated balls to a plate or an airtight container and place them back in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. They will be firmer and more flavorful, making each bite even more enjoyable during your holiday gatherings. Make Ahead Options These Pineapple Christmas Balls are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This not only helps the flavors meld beautifully but also makes rolling into balls a breeze when you’re ready to serve. Additionally, you can roll the balls in coconut and nuts ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep them in a sealed container to maintain their freshness and texture, ensuring they stay just as delicious as when you first made them. When it’s time to enjoy, simply chill for an extra 30 minutes before serving for the best results! Variations & Substitutions for Pineapple Christmas Balls Feel free to play with these delightful ideas and create your own festive twist on these tropical treats! Nut-Free: Swap out the pecans entirely and use sunflower seeds for a crunchy, nut-free option that’s perfect for those with allergies. Coconut-Free: Replace coconut flakes with finely crushed graham crackers to maintain texture while introducing a different flavor element. Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese for a completely dairy-free treat that everyone can enjoy. Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the mixture for an added layer of decadence that pairs beautifully with the tropical flavors. Berry Burst: Mix in chopped dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of tartness that complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully. Zesty Lime: For an extra zing, increase the lime juice to brighten the flavors even more, giving a refreshing kick to every bite. Holiday Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the mixture to give your Pineapple Christmas Balls a warm, spiced twist—perfect for cozy holiday gatherings. Double the Tropical: For an extra tropical flair, incorporate a half cup of shredded mango or banana into the mixture, taking these treats to the next tropical level. Enjoy exploring these variations, and don’t forget to check out our recipes for Holiday Coconut Macaroons or Chocolate Covered Almonds that make wonderful pairing options during this festive season! How to Store and Freeze Pineapple Christmas Balls Fridge: Store your Pineapple Christmas Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain their freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container, where they can last up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Pineapple Christmas Balls in the fridge overnight for the best texture. Reheating: These treats are best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary—just enjoy their delightful creaminess straight from the fridge! Expert Tips for Pineapple Christmas Balls Drain Well: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly; excess moisture can make your Pineapple Christmas Balls too soggy and difficult to shape. Chill for Ease: Allow the mixture to chill for at least 20 minutes before rolling; this makes it easier to form neat, uniform balls. Coating Choices: Experiment with different coatings; using crushed walnuts or almonds can give your Pineapple Christmas Balls a unique flavor profile. Sweetness Balance: Taste the mixture before forming balls; adjust powdered sugar to your preference for the perfect sweetness that suits your palate. Storage Tips: Store leftover Pineapple Christmas Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful. What to Serve with Pineapple Christmas Balls Get ready to create the ultimate holiday spread that tantalizes the taste buds. Fruit Platter: A colorful selection of fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the Pineapple Christmas Balls. Mix tropical fruits for a cohesive theme. Gingerbread Cookies: Warm, spiced gingerbread cookies provide a cozy contrast, making your dessert table feel even more festive this season. Hot Cocoa: A rich mug of hot cocoa, topped with whipped cream, pairs beautifully with the tropical flavors for a comforting treat. Spiced Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink adds a traditional touch, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the balls. It’s the essence of holiday cheer! Mixed Nut Bowl: Crunchy, lightly salted nuts provide a satisfying texture contrast, enhancing the nutty flavors in your Pineapple Christmas Balls. Coconut Macaroons: For a double dose of coconut delight, these chewy cookies echo the flavors of your balls, creating harmony on the dessert table. Berry Compote: A tangy berry compote or sauce can cut through the sweetness, adding a delightful tartness that brightens each bite. Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like cream cheese and ricotta; their creaminess pairs well with the texture and flavor of the Pineapple Christmas Balls. Festive Sparkling Juice: Elevate the celebration with festive sparkling juices, providing a refreshing sip that complements the tropical indulgence perfectly. Pineapple Christmas Balls Recipe FAQs How should I select ripe pineapple for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing pineapple, look for a firm fruit with a sweet aroma at the base, indicating ripeness. Avoid pineapples with dark spots or a very soft feel, as these can signify overripeness. If using canned crushed pineapple, make sure it’s in juice rather than syrup for a fresher flavor. How do I store leftover Pineapple Christmas Balls? Very simple! Store your leftover Pineapple Christmas Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and tasty for snacking! If you notice they’re getting too soft, you might want to place them in the freezer for longer storage. Can I freeze Pineapple Christmas Balls? Yes, you can! To freeze, first place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight, and they’ll be as good as new! What should I do if the mixture is too wet or sticky? If you find your mixture is too wet, don’t worry! Start by adding a little extra powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Alternatively, you can incorporate more coconut flakes. Just remember to be gentle when mixing to keep the fun texture intact! Are Pineapple Christmas Balls suitable for those with nut allergies? Great question! If you’re accommodating nut allergies, simply omit the chopped pecans or substitute them with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a crunch. Just make sure to check labels for any potential cross-contamination, especially if the treat is shared with others. Can pets eat Pineapple Christmas Balls? It’s best not to share these with your furry friends. The cream cheese and powdered sugar aren’t suitable for pets, and the nuts can be a choking hazard or cause allergies. It’s always best to keep these holiday treats just for the humans! Delightful Pineapple Christmas Balls for Your Holiday Parties Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delightful no-bake dessert that brings a tropical twist to your holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 45 minutes minsChilling Time 50 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 24 ballsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Mixture8 ounces Cream Cheese Can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.1 cup Crushed Pineapple Drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.1 cup Powdered Sugar Adjust to taste based on desired sweetness.For the Coating1 cup Coconut Flakes Unsweetened coconut is recommended for less sweetness.½ cup Chopped Pecans Can replace with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty profile.Optional Flavor Enhancers1 splash Lime Juice Enhances flavor with acidity. Equipment Mixing BowlElectric MixerSpatulaPlastic wrapShallow Bowlsplate Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Christmas BallsIn a medium mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, crushed pineapple, and powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and well blended, about 3–5 minutes.Gently fold in coconut flakes and chopped pecans into the creamy mixture. If desired, add a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.After chilling, remove the mixture from the refrigerator. Using your hands, scoop out small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into smooth balls.Place additional coconut flakes and chopped pecans in separate shallow bowls. Roll each ball in the coconut and then in the pecans.Transfer the coated balls to a plate or an airtight container and place them back in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1ballCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore leftover Pineapple Christmas Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to maintain their freshness and flavor. 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