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Need a Christmas dessert that's both cute and quick? These strawberry Santas will steal the show at your next holiday gathering. What I adore about these little guys is how they combine fresh berries with a rich cheesecake mixture. And guess what? You'll only need four ingredients and 15 minutes to get them ready. Your friends won't believe how simple they were to make.
Why These Tiny Santas Win Hearts
My kids can't get enough of these strawberry Santas each December. They're not just adorable but surprisingly healthy too - each one has under 50 calories. The filling hits that perfect sweet spot and watching my little ones put their own Santas together has turned into our must-do holiday activity. Nothing beats seeing them beam with pride over their creations.
Ingredients You'll Want Handy
- Strawberries: Choose 12 large, similarly sized ones. Rinse thoroughly and dry them completely.
- Decorations: Try black and red icing for facial features, or go with tiny chocolate chips or raisins instead.
- Vanilla Extract: A single teaspoon of the real stuff makes all the difference.
- Powdered Sugar: You'll just need 2 tablespoons for perfect sweetness.
- Whipped Cream Cheese: An 8 ounce container works perfectly - either full-fat or reduced fat.
Assembly Steps For Your Holiday Treats
- Build Your Santa Army
- Begin with the bottom piece add your cheese mixture place the middle section and hat on top then finish with a dollop for Santa's fluffy hat. Add those tiny eyes and nose last.
- Mix Up The Creamy Filling
- Blend your cream cheese vanilla and powdered sugar until it's nice and smooth. Transfer this mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
- Get Your Strawberries Ready
- First wash your berries. Remove the green tops so they'll stand properly then cut each strawberry into three sections to create the base body and pointed hat.
Try These Tasty Twists
I sometimes use sliced bananas for something different or try ricotta for an Italian-inspired version. My sister prefers using Greek yogurt in her filling and when my vegan friends visit I switch to plant-based cream cheese. Don't be afraid to play with the decorations either - tiny sprinkles chocolate bits or dried fruit all look wonderful.
Helpful Hints For Success
These cuties taste way better when they're freshly made so I always put them together just before guests arrive. Any leftovers can stay in your fridge for a day or two in an airtight container though they might soften a bit. Don't even think about using frozen strawberries here - you really need fresh ones.
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The Sweetest Holiday Memory Maker
Trust me these strawberry Santas will bring smiles all around your Christmas table. They're lightweight sweet and completely charming. Every time I serve them people's faces light up with delight. They're honestly the most perfect little nibble to share during the festive season.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long do strawberry Santas stay fresh?
Your berry Santas will keep for up to two days when put in a sealed container in your fridge. They taste best when you eat them the same day you make them for top flavor and looks.
- → Can I make these ahead for a party?
You can fix these treats a few hours before guests arrive. Keep them cold until serving time, but try not to make them more than a day before as the berries might get soft and wet.
- → What if my strawberries are too small?
Try to find big, firm berries at the market. If you only have tiny ones, use less filling and create baby Santas - they'll still look adorable but in a smaller package.
- → Why is my cream cheese filling too runny?
Always use cold cheese and don't mix it too much. If your filling looks too loose, stick it in the fridge for 30 minutes before adding it to your berries.
- → Can I use different decorations for the face?
Sure, try small chocolate bits for eyes or colorful frosting. Some folks use tiny seeds for eyes or even small candy bits for extra fun.