Easy Pineapple Treats

Category: Let's Bake Something Wonderful

Quick, no-fuss treats mixing cream cheese, tropical pineapple, and coconut. A convenient option for special occasions.
Hannah Author
Updated on Sat, 17 May 2025 19:03:36 GMT
Close-up of yellow coconut-coated treats on a black-and-white dish surrounded by pineapple pieces. Save
Close-up of yellow coconut-coated treats on a black-and-white dish surrounded by pineapple pieces. | recipesbyhannah.com

Whenever I whip up these Pineapple Balls, it feels like I’m bringing summer right into winter. Each bite is this fun mix of creamy, sweet, and a little zing—honestly, everyone’s always asking how I make them.

What Makes Them Stand Out

The real secret is they’re super easy but always look impressive. It's that tang from pineapple with the smoothness of cream cheese and just enough crunchy crumbs that hooks everyone in. I end up making them every year for gifts and potlucks because people love them so much.

What Goes In Them

  • Coconut Flakes: Go for unsweetened—they’re the magic for our snowy finish.
  • Graham Crackers: Crush them up really well for the best texture.
  • Pineapple Jello: This gives that yummy fruity kick.
  • Cream Cheese: Let it come to room temp—mixing’s a breeze then.
  • Crushed Pineapple: Drain it really well so the mixture sticks together.
Coconut-dusted round treats sit on a plate, with another bowl of them and a hint of pineapple in the blurry background. Save
Coconut-dusted round treats sit on a plate, with another bowl of them and a hint of pineapple in the blurry background. | recipesbyhannah.com

Easy-Peasy To Make

Chill Time
Stick the mix in the fridge so it gets sturdy for rolling.
Shape and Roll
Scoop out mini balls and give them a coconut coating till they look like snowballs.
Mix It Up
Start by beating your cream cheese till it’s nice and smooth. Add jello powder, graham crumbs, then the pineapple. Mix till combined.

Perfect To Share

Pop these sweet bites into cute paper liners or pile them up on a platter for the holidays. They’re just as good for low-key hangouts as they are at big parties.

Switch Things Up

Got folks who don’t eat gluten? Use gluten-free graham crackers. Looking for dairy-free? Vegan cream cheese does the trick. Want to play around? Try different jello colors to match your vibe.

Eight golden coconut-crusted treats rest on parchment atop a wooden tray. Save
Eight golden coconut-crusted treats rest on parchment atop a wooden tray. | recipesbyhannah.com

Storing Is Easy

Keep them in the fridge, they’ll be tasty for a full week. Need to make them way ahead? Freeze them up to a month with some wax paper between—no sticking worries.

All About The Coconut

If you want super fine coconut, run it through your food processor. Like a bite? Toss it on as it comes. Totally depends how you like it best.

Spread Some Cheer

Wrap these up in fun boxes—they’re a standout gift. The tropical hint sets them apart, folks never forget them compared to all the usual sweets.

Unbeatable Fun

It’s wild how these simple things turn into something so awesome. Fast, fuss-free, totally no oven, and perfect for crazy-busy holidays—but everyone thinks you went all out.

Yellow snack balls dotted with coconut line a plate. In the blurry background, you can spot more treats and a bowl of coconut shreds. Save
Yellow snack balls dotted with coconut line a plate. In the blurry background, you can spot more treats and a bowl of coconut shreds. | recipesbyhannah.com

Wrap-Up

A no-hassle dessert that’s perfect for gatherings. These delightfully fruity, cheese-filled bites with coconut are great for preparing in advance to wow your guests.

Recipe FAQs

→ What happens if pineapple isn’t drained?
Leaving extra juice makes it hard for the mixture to hold together. Squeeze the juice out using a small sieve.
→ Can I prep these days ahead?
Yes, up to three days in advance. Keep them in the fridge and allow them to sit out briefly before serving.
→ Why should cream cheese be soft?
It’s easier to mix everything evenly when the cream cheese isn’t cold. Give it at least 30 minutes to soften.
→ Is fresh pineapple okay?
Canned is the better pick since fresh might have more juice and throw off the texture.
→ How long will these last?
They’ll stay good in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Freezing isn’t a great choice since it changes the texture.

Pineapple Balls

Sweet and tangy balls made with cream cheese, crushed pineapple, and rolled in coconut. A simple dessert with tropical vibes.

Preparation Time
20 min
Cooking Time
~
Total Time
20 min

Category: Sweet Kitchen

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 28 Servings (28 balls)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 3 ounces of pineapple gelatin mix.
02 20 oz of crushed pineapple, drained really well.
03 3/4 cup of graham crumbs.
04 8 oz of softened cream cheese.
05 2 1/4 cups of coconut flakes, unsweetened.

Directions

Step 01

Use a fine sieve to squeeze all the liquid out of your crushed pineapple.

Step 02

Beat the cream cheese until smooth—no lumps allowed!

Step 03

Mix the gelatin powder with the cream cheese until it's all together.

Step 04

Scoop out and roll into small balls, about a tablespoon size.

Step 05

Roll each ball in the crumbs, then in the coconut shreds.

Step 06

Pop the balls into the fridge until they firm up—about 4 hours.

Notes

  1. Make sure to squeeze the pineapple super dry.
  2. Leave the cream cheese out to soften before starting.
  3. Keep these cold until you're ready to serve!

Required Equipment

  • A sieve with fine holes.
  • Electric mixer or hand beater.

Allergen Information

Check all ingredients for potential allergens and consult a medical professional if uncertain.
  • Contains dairy.
  • Contains wheat.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are for reference only and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 163
  • Fats: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Proteins: 2 g