Introduction
Looking for a fun and festive treat that will delight kids and adults alike? Look no further than Strawberry Santas! These adorable, bite-sized creations are perfect for holiday gatherings, dessert tables, or simply spreading some Christmas cheer. Made with fresh strawberries, creamy filling, and a touch of decorative icing, Strawberry Santas are not only visually appealing but also deliciously irresistible. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through making these easy, yet impressive, treats that will surely become a holiday favorite.
Ingredients List
To create your very own Strawberry Santas, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 large strawberries
- 1 cup whipped cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Decorative red and black icing for the face
Timing
Creating these delightful Strawberry Santas is a quick process, perfect for busy holiday schedules:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Assembly Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by carefully washing the strawberries. After drying them, cut the stem off each strawberry to create a flat base. Then, slice the strawberries in half, ensuring there’s enough room on top for the Santa hat.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a small mixing bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Transfer the mixture into a piping bag for easy assembly.
Step 3: Assemble the Strawberry Santas
Place the base of the strawberry on a plate. Pipe the cream cheese mixture on top of the strawberry, creating a tall enough layer to accommodate a face. Place the strawberry top (Santa hat) on the cream cheese layer and pipe a small amount of cream cheese on the tip for a pom-pom effect. Use decorative icing to draw a cheerful face.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per Strawberry Santa:
- Calories: 49 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 11mg
- Sodium: 72mg
- Potassium: 68mg
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 112 IU
- Vitamin C: 7mg
- Calcium: 32mg
- Iron: 0.1mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a lighter version of Strawberry Santas, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a filling base. You can also reduce the powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute for a healthier twist without compromising on taste.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Santas can be served as a delightful dessert at holiday parties or as a fun snack for kids. Pair them with a platter of assorted fruits or festive cookies for a colorful spread that will impress any guest.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling: Avoid overfilling the strawberries with cream cheese, as it can cause them to topple over.
- Uneven Cuts: Ensure that the strawberry bases are cut evenly to prevent wobbling.
- Rushing the Assembly: Take your time when piping and assembling to ensure that each Santa is neat and charming.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store any leftover Strawberry Santas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Be mindful that they are best enjoyed fresh, as the strawberries can release moisture over time.
Conclusion
Strawberry Santas are a delightful addition to any festive occasion, combining the freshness of strawberries with creamy, sweet filling. Easy to make and fun to eat, these treats are sure to bring smiles and holiday spirit to your table.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Strawberry Santas ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to serve.
Q: What can I use instead of decorative icing for the face?
A: You can use small chocolate chips or edible markers for an easy alternative.
Q: Can I freeze Strawberry Santas?
A: It’s best not to freeze them, as the texture of the strawberries and cream cheese may change.
For more delightful recipes and holiday inspiration, check out our related posts on AdrianRecipes.com. Happy Holidays!
Strawberry Santas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the strawberries by carefully washing them.
- Cut the strawberries into three pieces. Cut the stem off the strawberry so you have a flat side to sit them down on. Then cut the berries in half with enough room on top for the top of the strawberry to be a Santa hat.
- In a small mixing bowl, mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Carefully put the cream cheese mixture into a piping bag.
- To assemble the strawberry Santas, put the bottom of the Santa on a plate. Pipe the cream cheese mixture on top of the strawberry, tall enough that you have room to draw the face. Add the Santa hat on top of the body and then use the piping bag to add the white top.
- Carefully use the decorative icing to draw the face.
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
