Save Festive, juicy strawberries transformed into adorable Santa hats, filled with creamy cheesecake and topped with a sweet marshmallow. A fun, easy holiday treat perfect for kids and parties.
I love making these with my kids; they enjoy decorating and eating them right away.
Ingredients
- Fruit: 12 large fresh strawberries
- Cheesecake Filling: 113 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Topping & Decorations: 12 mini marshmallows, 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips, 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for melting)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry the strawberries. Slice off the leafy end so each strawberry stands upright. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3:
- Transfer the cheesecake filling to a piping bag or plastic bag with a corner snipped off.
- Step 4:
- Pipe a small mound of filling onto the cut side of each strawberry to form the face.
- Step 5:
- Place a mini marshmallow on top of each strawberry to resemble the pom-pom of Santas hat.
- Step 6:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Step 7:
- Pipe or drizzle a ring of melted white chocolate around the base of each strawberry to mimic the hats fur trim. Use a toothpick for precision if needed.
- Step 8:
- Arrange the finished Santa hats in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 160°C (320°F) for 23 minutes to lightly set the chocolate (optional, for a firmer finish). Cool before serving.
Save These treats always bring smiles during holiday gatherings with family and friends.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled or at room temperature. A glass of milk pairs nicely for kids.
Variations
Try swapping cream cheese for whipped cream for a lighter version. Add mini chocolate chips for eyes to make each Santa unique.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to 2 hours for best freshness.
Save This recipe adds a cheerful touch to any holiday party with minimal effort required.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes, you can skip the air fryer step and enjoy the strawberries chilled or at room temperature. The air fryer helps set the chocolate trim for a firmer finish but is not essential.
- → What can I use instead of cream cheese filling?
For a lighter option, whipped cream or Greek yogurt can replace the cream cheese mixture while maintaining a creamy texture.
- → How do I prevent strawberries from becoming soggy?
Ensure strawberries are dry after washing and slice off the leafy end carefully. Filling them just before serving helps maintain freshness.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and chill the stuffed strawberries for up to 2 hours before serving to keep the flavors fresh and textures intact.
- → Is it necessary to melt white chocolate with coconut oil?
The coconut oil helps smooth the melted white chocolate for easier drizzling but can be omitted if preferred.