How to Make a Showstopping Pineapple Palm Tree

Pineapple palm trees are the perfect festive fruit centerpiece for your next summer party or barbecue These impressive edible decorations are easier to make than they look and are sure to wow your guests. With just a few inexpensive supplies and some fresh pineapple, you can create a gorgeous palm tree that will be the star of your buffet table or dessert spread

Supplies You’ll Need

To make your own pineapple palm tree you’ll need

• 3 whole pineapples – Choose pineapples with green leaves still attached. At least one pineapple should have a flat bottom so it stands up straight.

• Bamboo skewers – You’ll need 10-15 skewers depending on the size of your pineapples. Look for 6-8 inch skewers.

• Garden stakes or dowels – 3-4 thin garden stakes, approximately 1/4 inch wide. You can find these at any hardware store.

• Assorted fresh fruit like kiwi, berries, melon – Chopped bite-sized pieces to arrange around the base of the tree.

• Tropical greenery – Palm leaves or fern fronds work perfectly. Check your local florist.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your edible pineapple palm tree:

Prep the Pineapples

1. Remove the green leaves from 2 of the pineapples and set aside.

2. Cut the tops off all 3 pineapples so you have 3 pineapple “trunks”.

3. Stand the pineapple with the flattest bottom on a cutting board or platter. This will be the base.

Assemble the Trunks

1. Insert 4-5 skewers around the outer edge of the bottom pineapple.

2. Place the second pineapple on top and press down firmly so the skewers secure the trunks together.

3. Add another 4-5 skewers around the edge of the second pineapple.

4. Put the third pineapple on top and push several skewers vertically through all three trunks.

Add Stability

1. Press 1-2 garden stakes vertically through the center of all 3 trunks for extra stability.

Create the Palm Fronds

1. Take the pineapple leaves you removed earlier. Poke skewers into the bottom of the leaves.

2. Push the skewered leaves into the top of the stacked pineapples to create the palm fronds.

Insert Palm Leaves (Optional)

1. For an extra tropical touch, insert large palm leaves into the pineapple fronds. Check with your local florist for leaves.

Arrange the Fruit

1. Artfully arrange the chopped fruit around the base of the palm tree. Think “tropical fruit salad”.

And your pineapple palm tree is complete! The whole assembly takes about 30-45 minutes.

Tips for Success

Follow these tips to make a pineapple palm tree that actually stands up:

• Press skewers and stakes fully into the pineapple flesh for stability. The trunks need support.

• Don’t make the tree too tall. Three pineapples is ideal. More than that may topple over.

• Construct the tree right on the serving platter or table. Moving it after assembly can cause it to fall.

• Use fresh, firm pineapples. Soft or old pineapple will not hold shape.

• Refrigerate chopped fruit until ready to assemble, then add to the base.

• Work quickly once assembly begins so the fruit doesn’t get soggy.

• Imperfections add character! Don’t worry if your tree is a bit lopsided.

Transporting Your Pineapple Palm Tree

While it’s best to assemble the pineapple palm tree just before serving, you can transport a pre-made tree by disassembling just the top.

1. Make the full tree at home, but leave off the palm fronds.

2. Transport the skewered trunks and chopped fruit in separate containers.

3. Add the fronds once you arrive at your destination.

The pineapple trunks will stay firmer if not left assembled for more than 2-3 hours.

Get Creative with Embellishments

Personalize your pineapple palm tree with fun embellishments:

• Use straws cut into sections to make tropical drink flags. Poke into the trunks.

• Interlace string lights for a festive touch. Wrap them around the trunks.

• Add tiny decorative umbrellas to the fruit or greenery.

• Spear cocktail swords with fruit chunks for fruity kebabs.

• Use cupcake liners, tissue paper, or crepe paper as floral accents.

• Wrap ribbons around the skewers or gardening stakes.

• Use candies, chocolate, or cookies to fill in any gaps in the fruit.

Make It a DIY Party Activity

A pineapple palm tree is the perfect craft project for a summer party or family gathering. Make it a fun group activity:

• Set up a “palm tree bar” with all the supplies and let guests build their own.

• Turn it into a competition – award a prize for the best decorated or most stable tree.

• Schedule a pineappling palm tree making session as part of the party itinerary.

• Have kids spear chunks of fruit onto skewers for the base.

No matter how you incorporate it, crafting an edible pineapple palm tree together will create lasting memories.

Pineapple Palm Tree Inspiration

If you need a little extra inspiration before tackling this tropical fruit project, check out these amazing pineapple trees others have created:

<div class=”table-responsive”> <table class=”table table-bordered”> <thead> <tr> <th>Image</th> <th>Description</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> <td>This pineapple palm tree uses sturdy dowels and is decorated with flowers and greenery for a luau feel.</td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> <td>Check out this YouTube tutorial to see exactly how to assemble a pineapple palm tree.</td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> <td>For a patriotic 4th of July vibe, adorn your pineapple palm with red, white and blue embellishments.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table></div>

These stunning examples prove just how impressive yet easy it is to craft your very own pineapple palm tree. Pick up some supplies and pineapples and try making one – your guests will be amazed!

When hosting a tropical theme party or even just a summer gathering, transform your fruit and dessert spread into a tropical oasis by including a decorated pineapple palm tree. This beautiful edible centerpiece is sure to elevate any menu.