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Want a super adorable Christmas treat? These cute Strawberry Santas will brighten up any holiday gathering. I'm crazy about how these little goodies come together using just fresh strawberries with a smooth cream cheese mixture. And guess what? You can put them together in just 15 minutes using only four things. I guarantee your friends will be impressed.
The Wonder Of These Tiny Santas
My kids go wild for these Strawberry Santas each December. They aren't just adorable but also pretty healthy at under 50 calories each. The smooth filling isn't too sweet and my little ones love to help me make them. It's turned into our holiday custom and I enjoy watching their excited faces when they finish making their own Santas.
Items You'll Need To Gather
- Strawberries: Select 12 large ripe ones about the same size. Rinse them well and dry them off.
- Whipped Cream Cheese: You need an 8 ounce container. Both full-fat and reduced-fat work fine.
- Powdered Sugar: Only 2 tablespoons to add just enough sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of real vanilla adds fantastic flavor.
- Decorations: Use black and red icing for faces or try mini chocolate chips or small raisins instead.
Steps To Create These Sweeties
- Prepare The Strawberries
- First wash your strawberries thoroughly. Cut the green tops off so they stand flat then cut each one into three parts to form the bottom middle and hat.
- Create The Tasty Filling
- Stir together cream cheese powdered sugar and vanilla until it's all smooth. Transfer this mix to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
- Assemble Your Santa Squad
- Begin with the bottom piece add some filling place the middle part and top piece then give Santa his fluffy beard. Lastly add those cute eyes and nose.
Mix It Up As You Wish
I sometimes use sliced bananas for something different or try Italian ricotta in the filling. My sister prefers using Greek yogurt in hers while my vegan buddies love them made with plant-based cream cheese. Try different decorations too like tiny sprinkles chocolate bits or small raisins all look amazing.
Handy Hints From Experience
These little characters taste better when freshly made so I always put them together just before guests arrive. If you have leftovers they'll stay good in the fridge for a day or two in an airtight box but might get a little soft. Don't try using frozen berries for this fresh ones work way better.
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Delightful Holiday Pleasure
I bet these Strawberry Santas will add tons of happiness to your Christmas table. They're light tasty and completely charming. My visitors always smile when they spot them and yours will too. They're truly the ideal small dessert to enjoy during the festive season.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long will strawberry Santas last in the fridge?
Store these in the fridge in a sealed container, and they'll stay good for about two days. They look and taste best when eaten the same day they're made.
- → Is it okay to prepare them ahead of time?
Sure! You can make them a few hours before your event. Keep them refrigerated until it's time to serve, but avoid prepping them more than a day ahead, as strawberries might get too soft.
- → What if the strawberries I have are tiny?
Go for firm, larger-sized strawberries if you can. If the ones you have are small, just cut down the filling amount and make smaller Santas—they'll still be adorable and bite-sized!
- → Why is my filling not holding its shape?
Keep the cream cheese chilled and don't mix it too much. If it’s too soft, pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up before you start piping.
- → Can I use something else to decorate the Santa faces?
Of course! Use mini-chocolate chips for eyes or colorful icing for a personal touch. Some people like using seeds or small candies for facial features too.