If you’re looking for a no-bake treat that brings tropical sunshine to your Christmas dessert table, these Pineapple Christmas Balls are just what you need! My grandmother used to make a batch every December, and I can still remember the sweet aroma of pineapple and coconut filling her kitchen. These little bites of joy combine the creamy richness of cream cheese with the bright tang of pineapple and the crunch of nuts — all rolled into one irresistible holiday delight.
Perfect for cookie exchanges, dessert platters, or edible gifts, these Pineapple Christmas Balls are festive, easy to make, and always a crowd favorite. Plus, they require zero baking, so you can whip up a batch in minutes and let your fridge do the rest!
Why You’ll Love Pineapple Christmas Balls
- No-bake perfection: Quick, simple, and ideal for busy holiday schedules.
- Tropical twist: Pineapple and coconut bring a refreshing flavor to classic Christmas sweets.
- Creamy and crunchy: A perfect balance of smooth cream cheese, sweet fruit, and crunchy nuts.
- Make-ahead friendly: Chill them in advance for easy entertaining.
- Kid-friendly and customizable: Add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or cherries for extra fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup crushed pineapple – Make sure it’s well drained to prevent soggy balls.
- 8 oz cream cheese – Softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and structure.
- 1 cup shredded coconut – Use sweetened or unsweetened depending on your taste.
- ½ cup chopped nuts – Pecans or walnuts work wonderfully.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (for coating) – Adds a crisp outer layer.
- ½ cup shredded coconut (for coating) – For a snowy, festive finish.
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional) – For a little chocolate surprise in each bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Drain the pineapple
Place the crushed pineapple in a fine mesh strainer and press gently to remove as much liquid as possible. - Mix the base
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. - Add the flavor
Stir in the drained pineapple, 1 cup shredded coconut, and ½ cup chopped nuts until everything is evenly blended. - Shape the mixture
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray. - Prepare the coating
In a shallow bowl, mix 1 cup chopped nuts, ½ cup shredded coconut, and mini chocolate chips (if using). - Roll and coat
Roll each pineapple ball in the coating mixture until fully covered. - Add a festive touch
Optional: Press a maraschino cherry on top of each ball or mix in dried fruits during step 3 for extra color and flavor. - Chill before serving
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Serve cold and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
Arrange these Pineapple Christmas Balls on a festive platter or in mini cupcake liners for a pretty presentation. They pair beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or holiday punch.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month in a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare the mixture a day early, shape, and chill overnight.
Helpful Notes
- Chill before coating: If your mixture feels sticky, chill it for 30 minutes before rolling.
- Nut alternatives: Substitute nuts with crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs for a nut-free version.
- Flavor boost: Add a splash of rum extract or vanilla extract for extra holiday flavor.
- Texture tip: Use finely chopped nuts for a smoother coating.
- Decorative twist: Roll in colored coconut flakes or edible glitter for a festive finish!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure to crush and drain it thoroughly to remove all excess liquid.
2. What nuts work best for this recipe?
Pecans and walnuts are traditional, but almonds or macadamia nuts also taste amazing with pineapple.
3. How can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based powdered sugar substitute.
4. Can I skip the coconut?
Yes! Replace coconut with crushed graham crackers or finely chopped nuts for a different texture.
5. Do these need to stay refrigerated?
Yes, because of the cream cheese base, they should be kept cold until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
These Pineapple Christmas Balls are the perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and nutty—a no-bake holiday treat that looks beautiful and tastes even better. I’ve made them every Christmas for years, and they never fail to bring a smile (and a few recipe requests!).
Whether you’re making them for a Christmas cookie tray, a tropical twist on holiday candy, or as a homemade gift, these bite-sized delights are sure to become a new festive favorite in your home.

Pineapple Christmas Balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed pineapple well drained
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped nuts pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup chopped nuts for coating
- ½ cup shredded coconut for coating
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Drain pineapple: Press out as much liquid as possible to prevent a watery mixture.
- Mix base: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add flavor: Stir in pineapple, 1 cup shredded coconut, and ½ cup chopped nuts until fully combined.
- Shape: Roll into small bite-sized balls and place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Prepare coating: Combine 1 cup chopped nuts, ½ cup shredded coconut, and mini chocolate chips (if using).
- Coat: Roll each ball in the coating mixture until covered.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Serve: Enjoy cold or add a cherry on top for a festive touch.
Notes
- Make ahead: Chill before coating for easier rolling and a smoother finish.
- Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Nut-free option: Replace nuts with crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs.
- Flavor tip: Add rum or vanilla extract for a holiday twist.
Leave a Reply