Description
These no-bake pineapple Christmas balls are an easy, festive sweet treat perfect for holiday parties. They combine tropical pineapple sweetness with shredded coconut for a chewy, refreshing dessert that kids and adults love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 can (8 oz / 227g) crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 cups (160g) sweetened shredded coconut, divided
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons (56g) butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup (60g) chopped pecans or walnuts
- Optional: 2 ounces (56g) cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple very well using a fine-mesh sieve and press out excess liquid.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter (and cream cheese if using) with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the drained pineapple and 1 cup of shredded coconut. Add nuts if using and fold in.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch balls using hands or a small cookie scoop.
- Roll each ball in the reserved 1 cup shredded coconut until fully coated.
- Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
Drain pineapple thoroughly to avoid soggy balls. Chill mixture before rolling to prevent stickiness. Roll balls firmly in shredded coconut for best coating. Make ahead and store in refrigerator up to 5 days. Do not freeze as texture changes. Optional substitutions include coconut oil for butter and dairy-free cream cheese for vegan version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 7
- Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: pineapple Christmas balls, holiday treats, no bake dessert, festive sweets, easy holiday recipe, coconut balls, pineapple dessert