Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls are a delightful treat that brings tropical flavors to your holiday table. These bite-sized snacks are not only easy to make, but they are also perfect for sharing with friends and family during festive gatherings. They combine the sweetness of pineapple and coconut for a refreshing taste that everyone will love.
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Why Make This Recipe
Making Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls is not just about the delicious taste; it’s also about the joy of creating something special. This recipe is simple enough for kids to help with, making it a fun family activity. Additionally, they are no-bake, which means you can whip them up quickly without needing an oven. Plus, they are perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home!
How to Make Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls
Ingredients:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 1⁄2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1⁄2 cups shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Holiday-themed sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix the drained crushed pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1–2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to roll into balls.
- Once chilled, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Roll each pineapple ball in shredded coconut to coat the outside.
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle the top with red and green holiday sprinkles.
- Place the coated balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Serve chilled.
How to Serve Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls
Serve these Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls chilled as a refreshing dessert or snack. They are great for parties and gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy a sweet bite without needing utensils. You can place them on a festive platter for an eye-catching centerpiece.
How to Store Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls
Store any leftover Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can make them a day or two before your event and just keep them chilled until serving.
Tips to Make Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained; too much liquid can make rolling the balls difficult.
- Use unsweetened coconut if you prefer a less sweet treat.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweetened condensed milk to taste.
- Add a dash of almond extract for a different flavor twist.
Variation
You can mix things up by adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the mixture for added texture and flavor. If you want to create a chocolate version, roll the balls in cocoa powder instead of coconut.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple! Just make sure to crush and drain it well to get rid of excess moisture.
Are these gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, these Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls can be gluten-free.
Can I freeze Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them! Store the balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Just let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Enjoy making and sharing these Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls with your loved ones this holiday season!
Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can 20 oz crushed pineapple, well-drained Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk Adjust sweetness to taste.
- 1.5 cups shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling) Use unsweetened coconut for a less sweet treat.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Holiday-themed sprinkles (optional) For an extra festive touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, mix the drained crushed pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1–2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to roll into balls.
- Once chilled, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Roll each pineapple ball in shredded coconut to coat the outside.
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle the top with red and green holiday sprinkles.
- Place the coated balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Serving
- Serve these Pineapple Coconut Holiday Balls chilled as a refreshing dessert or snack.
