Pineapple Christmas Balls

Pineapple Christmas Balls are a festive, no-bake treat that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the rich flavor of graham crackers, coconut, and pecans. These easy-to-make bites are perfect for holiday gatherings, as a gift, or simply to enjoy with loved ones. With their colorful maraschino cherry topping, they not only taste delicious but also add a fun pop of color to your dessert table.

Ingredients

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• Maraschino cherries, drained and halved

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. Stir everything together until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
3. Top each ball with a halved maraschino cherry, pressing it gently into the center of each ball.
4. Refrigerate the balls for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up and chill before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: N/A (no baking required)
• Total Time: 1 hour (includes refrigeration)

Variations

• Different Nuts: If you prefer a different type of nut, chopped walnuts or almonds work well as a substitute for pecans.
• Coconut-Free Version: For those who don’t like coconut, simply omit it from the recipe. You can substitute with extra graham cracker crumbs or chopped nuts to maintain texture.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the balls after adding the maraschino cherry.
• Add Dried Fruit: You can add chopped dried fruit such as raisins, apricots, or cranberries for a more complex flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store Pineapple Christmas Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They need to stay cool to maintain their texture.
• Freezing: These treats freeze well! Place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: These are best served cold and do not require reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the mixture too wet.
2. Do I have to use graham cracker crumbs? While graham cracker crumbs provide a great texture, you can use digestive biscuit crumbs or even vanilla wafer crumbs as a substitute.
3. Can I make these in advance? Yes, these Pineapple Christmas Balls can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead treat.
4. Can I use a different nut instead of pecans? Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts, almonds, or even cashews for a different nutty flavor.
5. What if I don’t have maraschino cherries? You can replace the maraschino cherries with any other small fruit, like dried cranberries or a small piece of candied ginger, to top the balls.
6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure that the graham crackers you use are gluten-free, this recipe can be easily adapted for a gluten-free version.
7. How do I shape the balls? You can shape the balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop. Just be sure to keep them about 1 inch in diameter for even serving sizes.
8. Can I add more coconut? Yes, you can increase the amount of shredded coconut to your liking. Just be aware that adding too much might make the mixture too dry.
9. Can I skip the chilling time? The chilling step is crucial to help the balls set and firm up. It’s best to refrigerate them for at least 1 hour before serving for the best texture.
10. Can I make these without the cherry on top? Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the maraschino cherries and simply roll the balls in more shredded coconut or crushed nuts for a different look.

Conclusion

Pineapple Christmas Balls are a delightful holiday treat that are as easy to make as they are delicious. The combination of sweet pineapple, crunchy pecans, and coconut creates a perfect balance of flavors, while the colorful maraschino cherries add a festive touch. These bite-sized treats are a great addition to any holiday spread and will quickly become a favorite in your seasonal dessert rotation. Enjoy them chilled, and don’t forget to share the holiday cheer with friends and family!

Print