Description
These Pineapple Christmas Balls are a festive and delicious holiday treat combining creamy pineapple, cream cheese, and a delightful mix of graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and nuts. Perfectly sweet and easy to make, they offer a chewy, tangy flavor that’s great for holiday parties or as a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Mixture
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coating and Mix-ins
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
- Combine Pineapple and Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple and softened cream cheese. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring the pineapple is evenly incorporated.
- Add Sweeteners and Flavor: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the pineapple and cream cheese mixture. Stir continuously until all ingredients are thoroughly blended into a smooth, sweet base.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Fold in the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts gently. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a thick mixture suitable for shaping.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture—about 1 inch in diameter—and roll them into balls for even size and consistency.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and prepare for refrigeration.
- Chill the Balls: Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up and set properly before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, serve your Pineapple Christmas Balls cold as a festive dessert or snack, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Notes
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect texture.
- For a nut-free version, omit the nuts and increase shredded coconut or graham cracker crumbs slightly.
- These balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother consistency.
- Try rolling the balls in extra shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts for added texture and presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls (approx. 40g)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: pineapple Christmas balls, holiday desserts, no-bake treats, cream cheese balls, festive snacks
