Sunshine Pineapple Balls

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Sunshine Pineapple Balls – A Tropical Holiday Treat

Craving a taste of sunshine in every bite?
These adorable Pineapple Christmas Balls are like a mini tropical vacation for your taste buds — creamy, coconut-coated, and bursting with bright pineapple flavor.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, dessert platters, or a sweet mid-day pick-me-up, these bite-sized no-bake treats come together in minutes and always disappear first.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required: Mix, chill, roll — that’s it!
• Tropical twist: Pineapple and coconut bring island flavor to your winter table.
• Crowd favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead friendly: Stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
• Festive & fun: Roll in coconut “snow” for a winter wonderland look.

 Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or sturdy whisk
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Paper towels or clean towel (for draining pineapple)
• Shallow plate (for rolling coconut)

 Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup shredded coconut (plus more for rolling)

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Drain the Pineapple

This is key! Place the crushed pineapple in a fine strainer and press firmly to remove excess juice.
You can also squeeze it in a clean kitchen towel — the drier, the better.
(Too much moisture = soft balls that won’t hold shape.)

Step 2: Cream It Up

In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Good Stuff

Fold in the well-drained pineapple and 1 cup shredded coconut until evenly combined.
The mixture should be soft but thick enough to scoop.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).
This helps the mixture firm up, making rolling easier.

Step 5: Roll & Coat

1. Place extra shredded coconut on a shallow plate.
2. Scoop small spoonfuls (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll into 1-inch balls.
3. Roll each ball in coconut until fully coated.

Step 6: Chill & Serve

Place finished balls on a wax-paper-lined tray and refrigerate until ready to serve.
They’re best enjoyed cold for that creamy, chewy texture.

 Serving Ideas

• Holiday platters: Arrange with chocolate truffles or fudge for contrast.
• Summer parties: Serve chilled on a bed of ice for a refreshing dessert.
• Gift idea: Place in mini candy cups and box as homemade sweets.
• Extra fancy: Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle crushed macadamias.

 Pro Tips

• Drain pineapple completely — this makes or breaks texture.
• Chill before rolling for perfectly shaped, firm bites.
• Use sweetened coconut if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Make it colorful: Add a drop of yellow or green food coloring to the mixture for festive flair.

These Sunshine Pineapple Balls are the bite-sized burst of joy you didn’t know you needed.
Creamy, tropical, and snowy with coconut — they taste like sunshine wrapped in sweetness.

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Sunshine Pineapple Balls

A no-bake tropical dessert made with cream cheese, coconut, and pineapple — perfect for the holidays or anytime you crave something bright and sweet.

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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup crushed pineapple drained well
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup shredded coconut plus extra for rolling

Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or sturdy whisk
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Paper towels or clean towel (for draining pineapple)
• Shallow plate (for rolling coconut)

Method

 

1. Drain pineapple thoroughly.
2. Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy.
3. Mix in pineapple and 1 cup coconut.
4. Chill mixture 30 minutes.
5. Roll into 1-inch balls and coat in coconut.
6. Chill until firm; serve cold.

Notes

Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 5 days, or freeze up to 1 month.