Imagine a platter filled with adorable little Santa figures, each one made from juicy strawberries and creamy goodness. That’s exactly what you get with Strawberry Santas! These festive treats are not only delightful to see, but they also burst with flavor in every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings, Christmas brunch, or even just a fun way to brighten up a weeknight dessert, Strawberry Santas are easy to make and sure to bring smiles. I stumbled upon this fun idea while searching for cute Christmas recipes, and it’s quickly become a favorite among my family and friends.
Why you’ll love this dish
So, what makes Strawberry Santas so special? For starters, they are incredibly simple to prepare, making them an ideal project for you and your kids. With just a few ingredients and minimal time, you can create a festive centerpiece that’s not only beautiful but also delicious and healthy!
"I brought Strawberry Santas to our holiday party, and they were the hit of the night! Everyone loved how festive they looked and tasted!" – A satisfied home chef
These sweet treats are perfect for numerous occasions, from Christmas parties to summer barbecues. The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy cheesecake filling resonates with both kids and adults alike, delighting guests with both nostalgia and fresh flavors. Plus, since they are made primarily from fruit, they’re a guilt-free addition to any festive spread.
Step-by-step overview
Creating these Strawberry Santas is as easy as 1-2-3. You’ll first prep the strawberries, then whip up a quick cheesecake filling, and finally, assemble your delightful little Santas. In no time, you’ll have a festive creation that impresses both in flavor and presentation.
How this recipe comes together
Follow these simple steps: First, wash and hull the strawberries. Then mix up your cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a bowl. After that, fill the hollowed-out tops of the strawberries with your fluffy cheesecake filling. Finally, arrange your strawberries on a platter so they look like cheerful little Santas. Let’s dive into the details!
What you’ll need
To whip up these delightful Strawberry Santas, gather the following ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
You can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or try adding a dash of cinnamon to the filling for a unique twist!
Step-by-step instructions
Here’s how to create your Strawberry Santas, step by step:
- Wash and hull the strawberries, removing the tops and creating a little cavity for the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Fill the hollowed-out tops of the strawberries with your cheesecake filling using a piping bag or a spoon.
- Arrange the strawberries on a platter, standing them upright to resemble Santa figures.
- Serve chilled and watch as they disappear!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Strawberry Santas shine best when served on a festive platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a snowy effect or pair them with chocolate-dipped pretzels for a savory crunch. They also make a great addition to a holiday cheese board or a sweet platter for a brunch buffet.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Strawberry Santas fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for up to 2 days, but trust me, they’re usually gone much sooner! Avoid freezing these treats, as the strawberries will lose their texture when defrosted.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your Strawberry Santas, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for a smoother filling. Additionally, using a piping bag can give you more control when filling the strawberries, ensuring a perfect Santa appearance. If you want to add a bit of personality, try using colored sprinkles or edible glitter for extra flair!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few fun variations to consider:
- Chocolate Dipped Santas: Dip the base of each filled strawberry in melted chocolate for an indulgent touch.
- Nut Butter Filling: Swap the cream cheese for your favorite nut butter for a unique flavor profile.
- Mini Santa Cheesecakes: Instead of strawberries, use mini graham cracker crusts filled with cheesecake filling and topped with strawberry hats.
Common questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
- Frozen strawberries can work, but fresh strawberries hold their shape and texture better for this recipe.
How long does it take to prepare these?
- The prep time is about 15-20 minutes, making it a quick and fun dessert to whip up.
Can I make these in advance?
- While they’re best served fresh, you can prepare the filling and hull the strawberries in advance. Assemble them just before serving for optimal freshness.
Strawberry Santas are a festive and fun way to celebrate the season, bringing joy to any gathering. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to delight your family and friends with these charming treats!
Strawberry Santas
Ingredients
For the Santa figures
- 16 pieces Fresh strawberries Wash and hull the strawberries.
- 8 oz Cream cheese (softened) Make sure cream cheese is fully softened.
- 1/4 cup Powdered sugar Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract For flavoring.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and hull the strawberries, removing the tops and creating a cavity for the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Assembly
- Fill the hollowed-out tops of the strawberries with your cheesecake filling using a piping bag or a spoon.
- Arrange the strawberries on a platter, standing them upright to resemble Santa figures.
Serving
- Serve chilled and enjoy!