Pineapple Christmas Balls: 5 Steps to Holiday Joy Recipe
Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delightful no-bake holiday treat combining creamy cream cheese, sweet crushed pineapple, and a crunchy coating of shredded coconut and pecans. These bite-sized balls are perfect for festive parties and bring a joyful tropical twist to your holiday dessert spread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main 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
- Drain Pineapple: Thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple to remove excess juice, which ensures the mixture is not too wet for forming balls.
- Mix Cream Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add Pineapple: Fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture, stirring until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Form Balls: Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls for easy serving.
- Coat and Chill: Roll each ball in shredded coconut and then in chopped pecans to coat evenly. Place them on a tray and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to set properly and enhance flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid soggy balls.
- Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Chilling the balls helps firm them up and meld the flavors.
- For a nut-free option, omit the pecans and roll the balls only in shredded coconut.
- These can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
