Pineapple Christmas Balls with Toasted Coconut: A Tropical Holiday Treat
Introduction
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise this festive season with Pineapple Christmas Balls with Toasted Coconut! This delightful recipe combines the sweet, tangy taste of pineapple with the rich, nutty flavor of toasted coconut. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozying up by the fire, these treats will bring a taste of the tropics to your Christmas celebrations. Make sure you subscribe to receive this recipe by email so you don’t miss out!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a tropical twist on holiday treats, bringing together flavors that are both exotic and comforting. The ease of preparation makes it a perfect activity to enjoy with family and friends. Not only are these Pineapple Christmas Balls delicious, but they also add a unique touch to your holiday dessert platter. Plus, they require no baking, making them a quick and convenient option for any busy holiday schedule.
Ingredients
– 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup toasted shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Additional toasted coconut for rolling
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowl
– Plastic wrap
– Tablespoon
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits for a slightly different texture. For a nut-free version, leave out the nuts or replace them with mini chocolate chips. You can also add a dash of rum extract for a more adult version of this treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple, graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, toasted coconut, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
2. If desired, add the chopped nuts to the mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Once chilled, use a tablespoon to scoop out portions and roll them into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Roll each ball in additional toasted coconut, pressing gently so the coconut adheres well.
6. Place the finished balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Refrigerate the Pineapple Christmas Balls for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet treats pair beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa or a spiced holiday tea. Add them to a dessert tray with other holiday favorites, such as chocolate bark or gingerbread cookies, for a diverse and festive offering.
Pro Tips for Success
Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet. If too sticky before rolling, you can slightly chill the mixture a bit longer.
Storing and Reheating
Store the Pineapple Christmas Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them and thaw them in the fridge before serving.
FAQ Section
– Can I use fresh pineapple? Yes, but ensure it is thoroughly crushed and drained to remove excess juice.
– Are there gluten-free options? Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Pineapple Christmas Balls with Toasted Coconut are the perfect blend of simple preparation and delightful flavor, making them a standout choice for your holiday season. Be sure to leave a review, share photos, or tag your creations on Pinterest or Instagram using #PineappleChristmasBalls.
Nutritional Information
Approximately 100 calories per serving (1 ball), depending on the exact ingredients used.
