Save A festive and colorful appetizer featuring juicy strawberries, creamy cheese, and sweet grapes arranged to resemble Santa hats perfect for holiday gatherings.
I first served this platter at a holiday party and it was a huge hit with family and friends.
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 This dish always brings smiles at family gatherings especially with kids excited to eat the festive hats.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the platter with sparkling wine or a festive punch to enhance the holiday vibe.
Variations
For a tangy twist use cubes of sharp white cheddar instead of mozzarella or substitute grapes with blueberries.
Dietary Considerations
For vegan guests use plant-based cheese and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Save Enjoy this simple yet festive appetizer that adds a touch of holiday cheer to any event.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → How do you assemble the Santa hats?
Thread a mozzarella cube on a skewer, place a strawberry with the flat side down on top, then add a grape as the pom-pom. Finish with a cream cheese dot for decoration.
- → Can I substitute the cheese used?
Yes, sharp white cheddar cubes can be used for a tangier flavor, or plant-based cheese for vegan options.
- → What are some garnish suggestions?
Fresh mint leaves work well for a refreshing touch and visual contrast on the platter.
- → Are there allergen concerns?
This dish contains dairy from mozzarella and cream cheese. Ensure grapes are seedless to avoid choking hazards.
- → How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes with no cooking required, making it a quick festive option.
- → Can the grapes be replaced with other fruits?
Yes, blueberries can substitute grapes for a different look and flavor.