Description

These delightful pineapple coconut balls offer a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors. Each bite reveals a soft, chewy interior infused with the bright taste of pineapple, complemented by the delicate, flaky texture of desiccated coconut on the exterior. Prepared without baking, these treats are a simple yet elegant addition to any dessert spread, providing a refreshing tropical note.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, in juice
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups desiccated coconut, plus more for coating
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for binding if needed)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly, pressing out as much liquid as possible. This is a crucial step for the consistency of the balls.
In a medium saucepan, combine the drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and most of the liquid has evaporated.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and 2 cups of desiccated coconut. If the mixture appears too wet to form balls, you may gradually add the optional 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour until a workable consistency is achieved.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and allow it to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling will make the mixture easier to handle.
Once chilled, take small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form uniform balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Place additional desiccated coconut in a shallow dish. Roll each pineapple ball in the coconut, ensuring it is fully coated.
Arrange the coated pineapple balls on a serving platter or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Notes

Ensure the crushed pineapple is very well-drained to prevent a sticky mixture.

Chilling the mixture thoroughly before rolling is essential for firm, easy-to-handle balls.

For an extra burst of flavor, you can toast a portion of the desiccated coconut before coating.

These balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 110 kcal
Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 1 g