
Tropical Christmas Treats are tasty little no-bake goodies that add an island vibe to your holiday table. These small bites mix the smooth texture of cream cheese with tangy, sweet crushed pineapple. Graham bits and pineapple jello powder create extra crunch and sweetness, while a coating of fine coconut makes them look like little snowballs - just right for winter gatherings. They're super easy to make and will wow everyone at your next holiday get-together or family dessert time.
INGREDIENTS- Crushed pineapple: 398 mL, drained thoroughly, giving these treats their fruity foundation.
- Graham crumbs: ½ cup, adding a nice crunch and cookie-like taste.
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, at room temperature, creating that smooth, creamy feel.
- Pineapple jello mix: 3 oz packet, boosting the tropical flavor and sweetness.
- Desiccated coconut: 2 cups, mixed inside and rolled outside for texture.
- Step 6:
- Keep your Tropical Christmas Treats in the fridge in an airtight container until you're ready to enjoy them.
- Step 5:
- Coat each ball completely by rolling it in your leftover desiccated coconut.
- Step 4:
- After chilling, grab tablespoon amounts of the mix and roll them into small balls.
- Step 3:
- Put the mixture in your fridge for about an hour so it gets firm enough to handle.
- Step 2:
- Mix in your drained pineapple, 1 cup of the coconut, the graham crumbs, and pineapple jello powder until everything's well combined.
- Step 1:
- Beat your cream cheese in a big bowl until it's completely smooth with no lumps.
- For a pretty presentation, top each ball with a tiny pineapple chunk or mint leaf before serving.
- Always serve these goodies cold and they'll stay fresh in your fridge for about 5 days.
- Don't skip draining the pineapple really well or your mixture might turn out too soft to form proper balls.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Emma suggests you can perk up the flavor by adding some fresh lime zest - it cuts through the sweetness and makes the pineapple taste pop.
Getting these treats just right means making sure your pineapple isn't watery. Don't rush the chilling step - it's what helps them keep their round shape when you're forming the balls. The coconut coating isn't just for looks (though it does make them seem wonderfully wintry) - it also gives each bite a lovely texture that everyone will love during holiday celebrations.
FAQsCan I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Sure thing! Just chop it up small and squeeze out all the juice you can before mixing it in.
Do these need to be kept in the refrigerator?
Absolutely - they've got cream cheese in them so they need to stay cold to stay firm and safe to eat.
