Pineapple Coconut Balls

Oh wow, have you ever tried something so sweet and soft it makes you smile right away? That’s how I felt the first time I made pineapple coconut balls. They look small, but oh my, they taste like a big bite of sunshine.

I love how the pineapple gives a juicy pop, and the coconut makes it soft and chewy. It feels like a little candy, but it’s so easy to make. No oven, no stress—just mix, roll, and done.

Every time I share these, people always ask for more. They’re perfect for parties, snacks, or even a sweet gift. Honestly, I keep a few just for me because they taste too good to give all away.

So, let’s make them together! Grab some pineapple, coconut, and let’s roll these sweet little balls of joy. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Delight: These coconut balls don’t require any baking, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a quick sweet fix.
• Tropical Flavor: The blend of pineapple and coconut is a perfect taste of the tropics that will transport you to a beach paradise with every bite.
• Kid-Friendly: These are simple to make and fun for kids to help with, especially when it comes to rolling them into balls.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a tasty treat ready in no time.
• Great for Meal Prep: They can be made ahead and stored for snacks throughout the week.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we dive into the recipe, here’s a quick list of kitchen tools you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowl: To combine all the ingredients together.
• Tablespoon: To measure the mixture for rolling into balls.
• Plastic Wrap: To chill the coconut balls in the fridge before serving.
• Baking Sheet: For rolling and storing the coconut balls while they chill.
• Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make these tropical treats (exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below):

• Crushed Pineapple (1 cup, drained): Sweet and tangy, pineapple adds both flavor and moisture to the coconut balls. Be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs (2 cups): These provide a crunchy base for the coconut balls and give them structure.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 cup): The key ingredient that binds everything together while adding rich sweetness.
• Toasted Shredded Coconut (1 cup): This provides the signature coconut flavor and texture. Toasting it enhances the flavor.
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the mixture.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• Finely Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): For added crunch and richness, if you prefer a nutty touch.
• Additional Toasted Coconut (for rolling): For coating the balls before serving, adding extra flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the Coconut (Optional)

If you prefer to use toasted coconut for the balls and the coating, start by toasting your shredded coconut. This step is optional but highly recommended for enhanced flavor.

To toast the coconut, spread it in an even layer on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake the coconut for 5-7 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent it from burning. Once it turns a light golden brown, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool. You’ll use half for the mixture and the other half for rolling the balls later.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (drained), graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, toasted shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt. If you’re adding nuts, mix them in as well. Use a spoon or spatula to thoroughly combine everything.

The mixture should come together into a thick, sticky dough-like consistency. If it feels too wet or sticky, add a little extra graham cracker crumbs until it firms up.

3. Chill the Mixture

Once the ingredients are combined, cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture makes it easier to handle and helps the flavors meld together. It also firms up the mixture, making it easier to roll into balls.

4. Roll the Coconut Balls

After the mixture has chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. You can use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to do this.

Next, roll each ball in the remaining toasted shredded coconut, pressing gently to coat each one evenly. This will give the balls an extra coconut flavor and a beautiful, golden finish.

5. Chill and Serve

Place the rolled coconut balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the balls are coated, return them to the fridge and let them chill for at least another hour before serving. This step helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.

Once chilled, the pineapple coconut balls are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the tropical flavors in every bite.

Variations for Pineapple Coconut Balls

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are many ways you can customize these coconut balls to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Add Lime Zest: For an added citrusy zing, add lime zest to the mixture. This complements the pineapple flavor perfectly.
• Use Coconut Milk: For an even more coconut-forward flavor, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk and adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup.
• Try Different Nuts: If you love nuts, feel free to experiment with different options. Cashews, almonds, or even macadamia nuts would work beautifully in this recipe.
• Make Them Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative like coconut condensed milk, and leave out the nuts if needed.
• Add Dried Fruit: Mix in dried tropical fruits like mango or papaya for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How to Serve Pineapple Coconut Balls

These coconut balls are a versatile treat that can be served in many ways:

• As a Snack: Perfect for a quick tropical snack when you’re craving something sweet but not overly indulgent.
• At Parties: Serve these coconut balls as a fun, bite-sized dessert at any tropical-themed party, barbecue, or family gathering.
• Gift-Giving: Pack them up in a cute box or jar, and they make for a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
• For Meal Prep: Make a batch and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for a quick snack throughout the week.

Storing Pineapple Coconut Balls

• In the Refrigerator: Store the coconut balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps keep them fresh and preserves their flavor.
• In the Freezer: You can also freeze the coconut balls for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition for each Pineapple Coconut Ball:

Nutrition	Per Serving (1 ball)
Calories	120
Total Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	14g
Sugars	12g
Protein	1g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	10mg

These nutrition values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands, so be sure to adjust accordingly based on your preferences and needs.

Conclusion

Pineapple Coconut Balls are a simple, yet delicious tropical treat that’s perfect for anyone who loves the sweet combination of pineapple and coconut. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a family gathering, or simply to enjoy at home, these coconut balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With their easy preparation and customizable options, you’ll be making these little bites of sunshine again and again. Happy baking, or rather, non-baking, and enjoy!