Bring a tropical twist to your holiday table with these no-bake Creamy Coconut Pineapple Christmas Balls. Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly creamy, these festive treats combine crushed pineapple, cream cheese, coconut, and a hint of pineapple gelatin for a bite-sized dessert that melts in your mouth. Rolled in coconut for a snowy finish, they’re perfect for Christmas platters, cookie exchanges, or as an easy make-ahead holiday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No baking required – great for busy holiday schedules
Combines creamy and tropical flavors in one bite
A perfect addition to Christmas cookie platters
Easily made ahead and stored in the fridge

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Ingredients:

398 mL canned crushed pineapple (very well drained)
Adds juicy pineapple flavor and natural sweetness.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Creates a creamy, rich base and helps bind the mixture together.
1 cup desiccated coconut (unsweetened, fine)
Mixed into the dough for texture and flavor.
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
Adds subtle sweetness and helps absorb excess moisture.
1 packet (3 oz) pineapple-flavored gelatin (dry mix)
Boosts the tropical flavor and helps firm up the balls.

For Rolling:

1 cup desiccated coconut
Used to coat the outside of each ball for a festive, snowball-like finish.

Tips and Tricks

Drain pineapple thoroughly by pressing it through a fine mesh strainer to avoid soggy results.
Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother blending.
For an extra burst of flavor, mix in 1–2 tablespoons of shredded sweetened coconut.
Store in an airtight container to prevent the coconut from drying out.

Variations and Customizations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
Swap pineapple gelatin for lemon or orange gelatin for a citrus twist
Dip half the ball in melted white chocolate for a decorative touch
Use sweetened shredded coconut for a sweeter variation

Pairing Suggestions

Serve alongside peppermint bark, sugar cookies, or chocolate truffles for a holiday dessert spread
Enjoy with a cup of spiced tea, eggnog, or coffee
Package in holiday tins for a homemade edible gift

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Creamy Coconut Pineapple Balls

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: About 24 balls

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy pineapple-cheese centers rolled in coconut—snowy, tropical, and so festive

Ingredients

398 mL canned crushed pineapple
8 oz cream cheese
2 cups unsweetened fine desiccated coconut
½ cup graham cracker crumbs
1 packet (3 oz) pineapple-flavored gelatin (dry mix

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.

2. Combine All Ingredients

Add the well-drained pineapple, 1 cup of coconut, graham cracker crumbs, and the dry gelatin powder to the bowl.
Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is thick and uniform.

3. Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
This step is essential to firm up the mixture so it’s easier to roll.

4. Shape the Balls

After chilling, use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture.
Roll into balls using your hands.

5. Coat in Coconut

Roll each ball in the remaining 1 cup of desiccated coconut to fully coat the surface.

6. Serve or Store

Place the finished balls on a tray or in an airtight container.
Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Notes

For best texture, make sure the mixture is fully chilled before rolling.
This recipe is easy to double for large gatherings or holiday gifting.
Keep chilled until ready to serve for the best flavor and consistency.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American