Here’s a festive and easy Pineapple Cream Cheese Christmas Balls recipe — perfect for holiday gatherings. These are sweet, tangy, creamy, and can be rolled in festive toppings for extra cheer!
🎄 Pineapple Cream Cheese Christmas Balls Recipe
🧈 Ingredients:
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8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
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1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
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1/4 cup finely chopped red and green maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)
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1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for a sweeter taste)
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
🧁 Optional Toppings for Rolling:
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Finely chopped nuts
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Toasted coconut flakes
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Crushed graham crackers
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Colored sugar or sprinkles (for Christmas flair)
🧑🍳 Instructions:
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Prepare the pineapple: Drain crushed pineapple in a fine mesh strainer and press out excess juice using the back of a spoon or paper towels. You want it as dry as possible to avoid a runny mixture.
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Mix base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
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Combine: Add drained pineapple, chopped cherries, chopped nuts, vanilla, salt, and powdered sugar (if using). Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
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Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or until firm enough to shape).
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Shape into balls: Once firm, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using a spoon or small cookie scoop.
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Decorate: Roll each ball in your desired topping (nuts, coconut, sprinkles, etc.).
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Serve or store: Refrigerate until ready to serve. These can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
🎅 Tips:
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Use gloves or slightly damp hands to prevent sticking when rolling.
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For a more savory twist, skip the powdered sugar and roll in chopped parsley and crushed pecans.
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Want extra holiday flavor? Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix.