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Pineapple Balls Recipe

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These Pineapple Balls are a refreshing and delightful no-bake treat combining the tropical sweetness of crushed pineapple with creamy cream cheese, tangy pineapple gelatin, and a crunchy graham cracker base, all coated in unsweetened coconut flakes for a perfect bite-sized dessert. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or a sweet snack.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
  • Yield: 28 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 20 ounce can crushed pineapple (very well drained)
  • 8 ounce package cream cheese (softened)
  • 3 ounce package pineapple flavored gelatin mix (Jell-O brand)
  • ¾ cup finely crushed graham crackers
  • 2¼ cups unsweetened coconut flakes

Instructions

  1. Drain Pineapple: Use a fine mesh sieve to drain as much liquid from the canned crushed pineapple as possible to ensure your mixture holds together well.
  2. Prepare Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to a medium-sized mixing bowl, making sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
  3. Beat Cream Cheese: Use a handheld mixer on medium speed to beat the cream cheese for about 1 minute until it’s smooth and lump-free, creating a creamy base for the mixture.
  4. Add Gelatin: Sprinkle the pineapple flavored gelatin over the cream cheese and mix on medium speed just until combined to infuse the mixture with pineapple flavor and slight firmness.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the crushed graham cracker crumbs and the well-drained pineapple until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
  6. Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up the mixture, making it easier to scoop and roll.
  7. Prepare for Rolling: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to place the finished pineapple balls as you roll them.
  8. Prepare Coconut Coating: Add the unsweetened coconut flakes to a shallow bowl for easy rolling of the pineapple balls.
  9. Scoop and Roll: Remove the mixture from the fridge. Using a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the mixture and roll into balls with your hands.
  10. Coat and Refrigerate: Roll each ball in the unsweetened coconut flakes, place them on the prepared baking sheet, and keep refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain their fresh texture.

Notes

  • Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
  • Chilling the mixture is key for easier handling and shaping.
  • You can substitute crushed graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives if needed.
  • These balls should be served cold and kept refrigerated to maintain freshness.
  • Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizing to ensure even chilling and presentation.