Save to Pinterest A festive and colorful appetizer featuring juicy strawberries, creamy cheese, and sweet grapes arranged to resemble Santa hats perfect for holiday gatherings.
This has always been a hit at our holiday parties especially with kids and adults alike who appreciate the fun and seasonal touch.
Ingredients
- Fruit: 16 large fresh strawberries hulled, 16 red grapes (seedless)
- Cheese: 180 g (6 oz) mozzarella cheese cut into 16 cubes (about 2 cm each)
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons cream cheese softened (for pom-poms)
- Serving: Fresh mint leaves (optional for decoration)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the strawberries and grapes.
- Step 2:
- Slice the stem end off each strawberry to create a flat base.
- Step 3:
- Thread one mozzarella cube onto a small skewer or toothpick.
- Step 4:
- Add a strawberry flat side down on top of the cheese cube.
- Step 5:
- Place a grape on top of the strawberry to form the pom-pom of the Santa hat.
- Step 6:
- For extra flair pipe a small dot of cream cheese on top of each grape to resemble the hats pom-pom.
- Step 7:
- Arrange the finished Santa hats on a serving platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Save to Pinterest This platter always brings my family together as everyone enjoys assembling and eating these festive treats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with sparkling wine or a festive punch for a delightful holiday appetizer experience.
Variations
Use cubes of sharp white cheddar instead of mozzarella or substitute grapes with blueberries for a creative twist.
Dietary Adaptations
For vegan guests use plant-based cheese and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to keep everyone included.
Save to Pinterest This simple yet festive appetizer is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition in your home.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I keep the strawberries fresh for serving?
Wash and dry strawberries thoroughly before assembling. Keep the platter refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness.
- → Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella?
Yes, sharp white cheddar cubes make a tangy alternative while maintaining the structure of the bites.
- → What can I use if I don't have cream cheese?
Soft plant-based cheese or dairy-free spreads work well for creating the pom-pom effect on top.
- → Are these bite-sized snacks suitable for kids?
Yes, they are small, colorful, and easy to eat, but be sure to supervise young children due to grape size.
- → How long can I prepare them in advance?
Assemble shortly before serving or cover and refrigerate for up to a few hours to keep ingredients fresh.