Pin it
I stumbled on this no-fuss pineapple coconut balls trick during my Hawaii trip and it's now my go-to summer treat. These tasty bites mix sweet pineapple with tropical coconut, making you feel like you're lounging on sand with waves nearby. After tons of kitchen tests, I've figured out the key is getting just the right moisture - they can't be soggy or crumbly.
Know Your Components
For these simple handmade treats, how you prep and what you pick really matters. Make sure to drain your pineapple well - I suggest pushing it down in a mesh strainer for half an hour to get rid of extra juice. Go for coconut that isn't dried out, as stale stuff won't stick together right. When picking your powdered sugar, try to find one without added stuff for the clearest sweet taste.
Must-Have Tools and Supplies
- Main Stuff:
- 1 tin quality crushed pineapple
- 2 cups newly shredded coconut
- Clean powdered sugar
- Real vanilla extract
- For Finishing:
- More coconut for outer layer
- Maybe some citrus peel
- Fancy toppings
- Kitchen Gear:
- Mesh strainer
- Small ice cream scoop (1-inch)
- Baking paper
- Sealed container
Making It Step by Step
- Getting Juice Out
- Set pineapple in strainer above a bowl. Push softly with rubber spatula to squeeze out juice. Wait 30 minutes. Press once more before using to make sure it's right.
- Mixing It Up
- Stir pineapple with 1 cup coconut until they're well blended. Pour sugar in bit by bit, mixing fully before adding vanilla. When squeezed, the mix should stay together.
- Forming Balls
- Scoop exactly 1 tablespoon for each ball to keep them all the same size. Roll quickly between hands but don't handle too much. If they're sticky, dust your hands with a bit more coconut.
- Letting Them Set
- Put balls on paper-lined tray with gaps between them. Cool in fridge without covering until they feel firm, about 1 hour, then roll in the leftover coconut.
Expert Advice and Fixes
If your mix seems too damp, toss in more coconut one spoon at a time until it keeps its shape. When it's too dry, add tiny splashes of pineapple juice. Cool your hands under tap water before rolling to stop sticking. If the balls lose their shape during storage, just roll them in fresh coconut before serving to make them look good again.
Pin it
Fun Twists
Switch things up with other fruit combos like mango-coconut or passion fruit with lime. Make them colorful by using naturally dyed coconut. My personal favorite twist includes hiding a macadamia nut in the middle. For fancy times, top with edible blooms or gold flakes.
Keeping and Presenting
Keep these handmade treats in single rows with paper between them. Store them in the fridge in a closed container to stay fresh. They'll keep their texture for about five days. They look best laid out on banana leaves or placed in cute paper cups. Let them warm up for 5 minutes before eating to get the full taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why are they falling apart?
Squeeze out extra liquid from the pineapple. If the mix is too wet, chill it first to firm it up.
- → Can fresh pineapple work?
Canned is better! It’s less watery and gives the right texture. Fresh pineapple might make it soggy.
- → What’s the best coconut to use?
Go for sweetened shredded coconut. Unsweetened may leave them a bit dry.
- → How long can I store these?
They’ll last in the fridge for about 5 days. If left out too long, they’ll soften up.
- → Can I freeze them?
Yes, they freeze well! Pop them in the freezer for up to 30 days, then let them thaw in the fridge.