Pineapple Christmas Balls

Introduction

The holiday season is a time for family, festivities, and, of course, food! One of my family’s favorite treats during this time is Pineapple Christmas Balls. These delightful, no-bake treats are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Each bite is a burst of tropical flavor, with a hint of sweetness and a delightful texture from the shredded coconut and graham cracker crumbs. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just want to add a touch of sweetness to your day, these Pineapple Christmas Balls are sure to be a hit. My kids love helping out in the kitchen, rolling the balls and rolling them in coconut, making it a fun family activity that brings us all together.

Ingredients

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional shredded coconut (for rolling)

Instructions

Mix the Pineapple Base

1. In a large bowl, combine the well-drained crushed pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir until everything is well mixed and forms a sticky dough-like consistency.

Shape the Balls

3. Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a small ball using your hands.
4. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.

Roll in Coconut

5. Roll each ball in additional shredded coconut, ensuring each one is fully coated.

Chill

6. Place the pineapple balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

Serve

7. Once firm, transfer the Pineapple Christmas Balls to a serving dish and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 ball
• Calories: 110 kcal
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 30mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 1g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

How to Serve

• On a Platter: Arrange the balls on a festive platter for a beautiful presentation.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut or some edible glitter for a festive touch.
• With Dips: Serve alongside chocolate or caramel sauce for an added treat.
• As Party Favors: Package them in small bags tied with ribbons to give as gifts.

Additional Tips

1. Texture Variations: For an added touch of texture, try mixing in chopped pecans or walnuts to the pineapple mixture before rolling the balls.
2. Firmer Texture: If you prefer a firmer texture, freeze the pineapple balls for 15 minutes before serving for a delightful bite.
3. Adjust Sweetness: If you like your treats a bit sweeter, feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to taste.
4. Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different extracts, such as coconut or almond, to give your Pineapple Balls a unique twist.
5. Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate-Dipped Pineapple Balls: Melt some chocolate and dip the chilled balls halfway for an indulgent treat.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit any nuts and increase the coconut for extra flavor.
• Tropical Twist: Add a bit of crushed macadamia nuts or mango puree to the mixture for a tropical flair.
• Sugar-Free: Substitute powdered sugar with a sugar alternative suitable for baking, like erythritol or stevia.
• Mini Version: Make smaller balls for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Parties: Perfect for any festive gathering, these Pineapple Christmas Balls add a tropical twist to your dessert table.
• Family Gatherings: Serve them at family reunions or potlucks; they’re a great way to bring a taste of the tropics to any occasion.
• Picnics: These treats are portable and easy to pack for a summer picnic or outdoor event.
• Lunchbox Treats: Add a few Pineapple Christmas Balls to your kids’ lunchboxes for a sweet surprise.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These Pineapple Christmas Balls can be frozen for up to three months. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
• Refrigeration: Store any leftover balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

• Yes, but you will need to finely chop and drain the fresh pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

1. What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?

• You can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed cookies like Oreos for a different flavor.

1. How can I make this recipe vegan?

• Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use a plant-based milk alternative in place of the powdered sugar.

1. Can I use sugar substitutes?

• Yes, you can use sugar substitutes like monk fruit sweetener or erythritol, but the texture may vary slightly.

1. How do I know when the mixture is well combined?

• The mixture should be sticky and hold together when you form it into a ball.

1. What’s the best way to serve these?

• They are best served chilled, and can be presented on a platter with fresh fruits or nuts.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare these a day in advance; just keep them refrigerated.

1. What if my mixture is too dry?

• If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of melted butter or a splash of pineapple juice to moisten it.

1. Are there any allergens in this recipe?

• The recipe contains dairy and gluten. Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies.

1. Can I add more coconut?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to add more shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delightful and easy holiday treat that brings a taste of the tropics to your festive gatherings. With their sweet and tangy flavor, chewy texture, and fun appearance, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, they require minimal effort and ingredients, making them a perfect choice for busy holiday schedules. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them at home with your family, these Pineapple Christmas Balls will become a cherished holiday tradition. Happy holidays and happy baking!

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