Save A festive and colorful appetizer featuring juicy strawberries, creamy cheese, and sweet grapes arranged to resemble Santa hats perfect for holiday gatherings.
This platter has always been a hit at our family holiday parties and it brings everyone together with its fun presentation.
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 recipe has created wonderful family moments as everyone gathers to assemble and enjoy the festive hats together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with sparkling wine or a festive punch to complement the flavors and enhance the celebration.
Dietary Notes
Vegetarian and gluten-free recipe; for vegan options, use plant-based cheese and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.
Allergy Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella, cream cheese). Check cheese labels for possible allergens and ensure grapes are seedless to avoid choking hazards.
Save Enjoy this easy and festive platter that adds a touch of holiday cheer to any gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cheeses work best for this platter?
Mozzarella offers a mild, creamy texture that complements the fruit. Sharp white cheddar can add tanginess, and plant-based cheeses serve as vegan alternatives.
- → How do I assemble the Santa hat arrangement?
Place a mozzarella cube on a skewer, top with a hulled strawberry with the flat side down, then add a grape. Finish by dotting cream cheese on the grape as the pom-pom.
- → Can I prepare this platter ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and cover the platter, then refrigerate until serving to keep ingredients fresh and firm.
- → Are there suitable garnish options?
Fresh mint leaves add a vibrant green contrast and refreshing aroma but are optional.
- → What are good beverage pairings?
Light sparkling wines or festive punches complement the fruity and creamy elements nicely.