Amazing Pineapple Christmas Balls that Spark Joy

Whimsical Pineapple Treats

In a small kitchen filled with warmth and laughter, a young girl learns the magical art of cooking alongside her mama. Growing up in sunny Florida, those moments of rolling tortillas and stirring up spices became the foundation of her culinary heart. Each bite of homemade goodness tells a beautiful story, blending the vibrant spirit of Mexico with the comforting flavors of Orlando. Today, we celebrate that joy with delightful Pineapple Christmas Balls, a treat that brings a taste of sunshine and cheer to any gathering, perfect for sharing love and happy moments.

Quick Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 24 balls
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Mexican-American
• Best Season: Holiday season

What Makes This Dish Shine

• Bursting with Flavor: The melding of sweet pineapple and rich coconut creates a tropical paradise in every bite, making these balls irresistible.
• Simple to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll find whipping these up a breeze, even if you’re new to the kitchen.
• Perfect for the Holidays: These delightful treats will brighten any festive gathering, adding a colorful and flavorful touch that’s sure to impress friends and family.
• Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer a sprinkle of edible glitter for a festive finish or want to experiment with flavors, these Pineapple Christmas Balls are versatile and fun.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained well
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or crushed vanilla wafers for a milder flavor)
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for a hint of nuttiness)
• Pinch of salt
• Additional shredded coconut
• Powdered sugar for a light dusting
• Edible glitter or holiday sprinkles for a festive touch

Ingredient Tips

• Crushed Pineapple: Ensure to drain well to prevent excess moisture, keeping the balls from becoming soggy.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Swap for crushed vanilla wafers to mellow the flavor; both options yield delicious results.
• Condensed Milk: Can use low-fat sweetened condensed milk for a lighter version without sacrificing taste.
• Edible Glitter: A delightful touch not just for aesthetics but also adds a fun twist that’s perfect for celebrations.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pineapple Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Mix until thoroughly combined.
2. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step allows the mixture to thicken and makes it easier to shape.
3. Roll into Balls: Once chilled, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball between your hands. Continue until all the mixture has been formed into balls.
4. Chill and Serve: Place the balls back on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for an additional 15 minutes to firm up.
5. Optional Decoration: Roll each ball in additional shredded coconut, and dust with powdered sugar. For a festive look, sprinkle with edible glitter or holiday sprinkles.

Pro Pointers for Best Results

• Chilling: Don’t skip the chilling steps; they enhance the texture and flavors.
• Rolling Technique: Ensure your hands are slightly moist while rolling to prevent sticking and to create a smoother finish.
• Flavor Infusion: For a deeper flavor, allow the balls to chill overnight; they taste even better the next day!
• Presentation: Place on a festive platter or in holiday-themed treat bags to share with loved ones.

Exciting Recipe Variations

• Vegan Delight: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream for a completely vegan version that remains equally delicious.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the mixture for an added crunch.
• Spicy Surprise: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder in the mixture for a unique spicy yet sweet flavor profile.
• Tropical Add-Ins: Mix in a handful of dried fruit pieces like mango or banana for an extra fruity surprise.

Perfect Pairings

Enjoy these Pineapple Christmas Balls as a sweet treat after a holiday meal or serve them alongside a festive drink like sparkling apple cider or a creamy eggnog. They are also delightful with a side of whipped cream or yogurt for a more filling dessert option.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls the day before the event, then simply store them in the fridge.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the formed balls in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Texture Preservation: To keep the texture intact, avoid refreezing once thawed.

Serving Inspired Ideas

Present your Pineapple Christmas Balls in a beautiful dessert dish, garnished with fresh mint leaves or sprigs of rosemary for a cozy touch. A touch of colorful sprinkles will elevate their appearance, making them perfect for holiday celebrations or family gatherings!

Kitchen Secrets That Make It Easy

• Mixing Method: Using a spatula to mix the ingredients can help prevent overworking and retain a tender texture.
• Moisture Control: Taste the mixture before rolling; if it’s too dry, add a bit more condensed milk to achieve the desired consistency.
• Coconut Variation: Experiment with flavored coconut (like chocolate or raspberry) for a fun twist!
• Fun Shapes: Get creative and use cookie cutters instead of rolling into balls for decorative shapes.

Storage & Reheating Techniques

• For best results, store any uneaten balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to a week!
• If you wish to serve them warm, a quick 10-second burst in the microwave will soften them just slightly for an enjoyable treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use fresh pineapple? Fresh pineapple can be used, but ensure it’s finely crushed and well-drained to mimic the texture of canned pineapple.
• Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour as a substitute for the crumbs.
• How can I add more flavor? Consider adding citrus zest or a dash of cinnamon for a warm hint that pairs nicely with the pineapple.
• Are these suitable for kids? Definitely! These treats are fun, sweet, and almost like candy, making them a hit among children.
• How long do these last? When stored correctly, Pineapple Christmas Balls can last up to a week in the refrigerator.
• What can I do with leftovers? Leftover balls can be crumbled on top of yogurt or mixed into a smoothie for a tropical twist.

Nutrition Information

• Serving Size: 1 ball
• Calories: 90
• Protein: 0.8g
• Carbs: 13g
• Fat: 3.5g
• Fiber: 0.4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.

A Few Last Notes

These Pineapple Christmas Balls encapsulate the joy of sharing and creating memories around the table. Just like the kitchens that foster love and laughter, may this recipe bring warmth into your home. It’s a sweet reminder of how food can bridge cultures and create connections. Invite friends or family to join you in the kitchen, make these delightful treats, and spread the festive cheer!

Ending on a Delicious Note

Now that you’ve discovered how to create these amazing Pineapple Christmas Balls, it’s time to gather your ingredients and delve into the delightful process. Feel free to share your creations on Pinterest and spread the love! After all, every bite tells a story, and we can’t wait to hear yours!

Pineapple Christmas Balls

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 24 balls 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful Pineapple Christmas Balls that bring a taste of sunshine and cheer to any festive gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained well
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or crushed vanilla wafers)
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Edible glitter or holiday sprinkles for decoration

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Mix until thoroughly combined.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
3. Take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball between your hands.
4. Place the balls back on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for an additional 15 minutes.
5. Roll each ball in additional shredded coconut and dust with powdered sugar. Sprinkle with edible glitter or holiday sprinkles for a festive touch.

Notes

Chill the mixture to enhance texture and flavor. Use moist hands while rolling to prevent sticking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 ball
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 3.5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0.4g
• Protein: 0.8g
• Cholesterol: 5mg