Pineapple Balls

Pineapple balls are a no-bake dessert made with crushed pineapple, cream cheese, and coconut flakes. Easy to make for holidays or gatherings!

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Prep Time20 minutes mins

Total Time2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings24

Pineapple balls are the perfect combination of tropical sweetness and creamy texture, making them a standout no-bake treat. With tangy cream cheese, juicy crushed pineapple, and a coating of shredded coconut, each bite is a delightful taste of the tropics. Whether you’re planning a party or just want a quick dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, this easy recipe is a must-try.

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What You Need To Know

• MAIN INGREDIENTS: Crushed pineapple, cream cheese, pineapple flavored gelatin mix, finely crushed graham crackers, unsweetened coconut flakes.
• QUICK STEPS: Drain crushed pineapple, mix cream cheese until smooth, add gelatin mix and graham crackers, combine with pineapple, chill for 2 hours, scoop and roll into balls, coat in coconut flakes.
• TOTAL TIME AND YIELD: 2 hours 20 minutes, makes 24 balls.

Why This Recipe

• Unlike many similar recipes, our use of pineapple-flavored gelatin not only boosts the tropical flavor but also adds structure, helping the balls hold their shape perfectly.

Pineapple Ball Ingredients

When it comes to making pineapple balls, simplicity meets a tropical twist. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a no-bake treat that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.

Pineapple Ball Substitutions and Additions

Crushed Pineapple: If you’re out of crushed pineapple, you can use fresh pineapple that has been finely chopped in a food processor. Make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Canned pineapple chunks can also be used if you pulse them to a finer consistency..

Pineapple Flavored Gelatin Mix: If you can’t find pineapple jello powder, orange or lime-flavored gelatin can be used as alternatives for a slightly different tropical flavor.

Graham Cracker Crumbs: Crushed vanilla wafers can provide a similar texture and sweetness.

Unsweetened Coconut Flakes: Sweetened coconut flakes can be used if you prefer a sweeter coating. For a nutty variation, try finely chopped toasted almonds or pecans.

How To Make Pineapple Balls

Creating these pineapple balls is a simple and fun process that combines easy steps with minimal preparation. By following the directions closely, you’ll achieve the perfect texture and balance of flavors in every bite.

STEP ONE: Use a fine mesh sieve to drain as much liquid as possible from the canned crushed pineapple. Press down gently with the back of a spoon to extract excess moisture. This step is crucial for avoiding a runny mixture that won’t hold its shape during rolling.

STEP TWO: In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. If your cream cheese isn’t soft yet, leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting. This will make it easier to achieve a smooth, lump-free texture.

STEP THREE: Use a handheld mixer on medium speed to beat the cream cheese for about one minute. The goal is a smooth, creamy base with no visible lumps.

If you’re mixing by hand, stir vigorously with a silicone spatula for the best results.

STEP FOUR: Sprinkle the pineapple-flavored gelatin mix over the beaten cream cheese. Continue mixing on medium speed until the gelatin is fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform in color.

This step not only adds flavor but helps firm up the mixture for easy rolling.

STEP FIVE: Stir in the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs and the drained crushed pineapple. Use a sturdy spatula or spoon to combine the ingredients thoroughly. Make sure there are no dry spots or clumps, as this ensures an even texture.

STEP SIX: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for two hours. This chilling step allows the mixture to firm up, making it easier to scoop and roll later.

STEP SEVEN: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a shallow bowl, spread the unsweetened coconut flakes, making it easy to coat the balls evenly.

STEP EIGHT: Using a one tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop out the chilled mixture and roll it into balls with your hands. Work quickly to keep the mixture firm, and rinse your hands occasionally with cold water if they get sticky.

STEP NINE: Roll each ball in the unsweetened coconut flakes, pressing lightly to help the flakes adhere.

Place balls on the prepared baking sheet. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Troubleshooting This Pineapple Balls Recipe

The mixture is too soft to roll into balls.
This often happens if the pineapple wasn’t drained thoroughly. Use a fine mesh sieve to press out as much liquid as possible before mixing.

The coconut flakes won’t stick to the balls.
If the mixture is too cold or dry, the coconut may have trouble adhering. Let the balls sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before rolling them in the coconut flakes.

The balls flatten instead of holding their shape.
The mixture may not have been chilled long enough. Chill for the full two hours to allow the gelatin to firm up and stabilize the texture.

The mixture is lumpy after adding the gelatin.
This can occur if the cream cheese isn’t soft enough. Allow the cream cheese to reach room temperature and beat it until smooth before adding the gelatin.

The coconut flavor is too strong.
Using unsweetened coconut flakes can help control the sweetness and intensity of the coconut. If you prefer a milder flavor, try lightly toasting the flakes before using.

The mixture is difficult to scoop evenly.
A cookie scoop is the easiest way to create uniform balls. If you don’t have one, use a tablespoon measure and lightly oil it for smoother scooping.

The balls dry out after storing.
Store the balls in a single layer in an airtight container to keep them moist and fresh. Avoid stacking them without a layer of parchment in between.

The texture is too grainy.
This can happen if the graham crackers aren’t finely crushed. Use a food processor or a sealed bag with a rolling pin to achieve a fine, even texture.

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How To Store Pineapple Coconut Balls

Keeping your pineapple balls fresh and ready to enjoy is simple with the right storage methods. Whether you’re making them ahead for a special occasion or storing leftovers, these tips will help you maintain their flavor and texture.

MAKE AHEAD: These pineapple balls can be made up to two days in advance. After preparing and rolling them in coconut, store them in a single layer in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

IN THE FRIDGE: Store pineapple balls in the refrigerator in a food-safe container. Keep them in a single layer or place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to three days.

IN THE FREEZER: For longer storage, place the pineapple balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. They can be frozen for up to one month.

To serve, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

REHEATING: As these are a no-bake dessert, reheating isn’t necessary. Simply allow frozen pineapple balls to thaw in the refrigerator before serving. If you prefer to serve them at room temperature, let them sit out for about 15 minutes before serving.

These pineapple balls are a quick and simple treat that brings the bright, tropical flavor of pineapple and coconut together in a creamy, no-bake dessert. Perfect for any occasion, they’re an easy way to add something fun and unique to your dessert table.

More Pineapple Recipes You’ll Love

• Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
• Pineapple Spears in Coconut Water and Malibu Rum
• Scalloped Pineapple
• Pineapple Whip Recipe
• Pineapple Fluff

Pineapple Balls

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Pineapple balls are a no-bake dessert made with crushed pineapple, cream cheese, and coconut flakes. Easy to make for holidays or gatherings!

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 2 hours hours 20 minutes minutes

Servings 24

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Equipment

• Pineapple balls are a quick and easy no-bake dessert made with crushed pineapple, cream cheese, and coconut flakes for a tropical treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe is a go-to for holidays, parties, or a sweet snack.

Ingredients

  

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• 20 ounces crushed pineapple, very well drained
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3 ounces pineapple flavored gelatin mix
• ¾ cup finely crushed graham crackers
• 2 ¼ cup unsweetened coconut flakes

Instructions

 

• Use a fine mesh sieve to drain as much liquid from the canned crushed pineapple as possible.
• Add the softened cream cheese to a medium size mixing bowl.
• Use a handheld mixer to beat the cream cheese on medium speed for about 1 minute, or until smooth and no lumps remain.
• Sprinkle the pineapple flavored gelatin over the cream cheese and continue to mix on medium speed just until combined.
• Stir in the crushed graham cracker crumbs and the well drained pineapple, until all of the ingredients are well incorporated.
• Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours. (This will allow the mixture to firm up and make scooping and rolling easier)
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Add the unsweetened coconut flakes to a shallow bowl.
• Remove the pineapple cream cheese mixture from the refrigerator. Scoop out the mixture with a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop, and roll into a ball.
• Roll the balls in the unsweetened coconut flakes and place on the prepared baking sheet. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Notes

• Lemon flavored gelatin mix can be used instead of the pineapple flavored gelatin mix.
• Instead of rolling the balls in the coconut flakes, you can sprinkle the coconut flakes on top of the balls immediately after rolling.
• You can substitute sweetened coconut flakes for unsweetened coconut.

Nutrition

Calories: 124kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 58mg | Potassium: 91mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 139IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.5mg

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