Pineapple coconut no-bake balls are creamy, tropical bite-sized treats made with crushed pineapple, coconut, cream cheese, and powdered sugar, then rolled in coconut for a snowy finish. They’re soft, chewy, and refreshing, perfect for parties, picnics, lunchboxes, or a quick sweet you can whip up without turning on the oven.
Why You’ll Love These Pineapple Coconut No-Bake Balls
These no-bake balls give you big “tropical dessert” flavor with minimal effort and ingredients. Drained crushed pineapple brings juicy sweetness, cream cheese adds richness and tang, and shredded coconut provides both structure and a pretty coating. The mixture chills quickly, rolls easily, and the finished bites store well in the fridge or freezer, making them ideal for make-ahead desserts, potlucks, or holiday trays with a sunshine twist.
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Ingredients & What Each One Does
- Crushed pineapple – Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and tropical flavor that forms the base of the balls.
- Sweetened shredded coconut – Provides texture, coconut flavor, and the signature snowy coating.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the mixture and helps bind it into a thick, rollable consistency.
- Cream cheese – Creates a smooth, creamy base and balances sweetness with a slight tang.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the tropical flavors and adds warm depth.
(Exact amounts can follow your preferred ratio; a common base is about 1 can well-drained crushed pineapple, 1 brick cream cheese, 2–3 cups powdered sugar, and 2–3 cups sweetened coconut, plus vanilla.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
- Drain the crushed pineapple extremely well in a fine mesh strainer, pressing with a spoon.
- Wrap in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible; too much liquid will make the mixture too soft to roll.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until very smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix to combine, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add the well-drained pineapple and powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture.
- Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth.
- Stir in shredded coconut a bit at a time until the mixture is thick, sticky, and holds its shape when scooped.
If the mixture feels too soft, chill the bowl for 20–30 minutes before rolling.
Step 4: Roll Into Balls
- Place extra shredded coconut in a shallow bowl for coating.
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and roll between your hands into balls.
- Roll each ball in the coconut until completely coated.
- Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
Step 5: Chill
- Refrigerate the tray for at least 1 hour, or until the balls are firm and well set.
- Serve chilled; they’ll be creamy, soft, chewy, and coated in coconut.
Why These No-Bake Balls Are Loved
- No baking required – Perfect for busy days, summer heat, or when the oven is full.
- Tropical flavor – Pineapple and coconut come together into a bright, sweet bite.
- Fun and easy – Great project for beginners or kids; just mix, roll, and chill.
- Perfect texture – Creamy inside, soft and chewy, with a coconut coating.
- Versatile – Ideal for parties, dessert platters, lunchboxes, or freezer treats.
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