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 enjoy making these each holiday season because they bring smiles to both kids and adults alike.
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 marshmallow 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 This recipe always brings my family together during the holidays to create sweet memories.
Notes
For a lighter version, use whipped cream or Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese filling. Decorate with mini chocolate chips for eyes if desired. Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours before serving.
Required Tools
Air fryer, mixing bowl, electric mixer or whisk, piping bag or plastic bag, small microwave safe bowl, knife
Nutritional Information
Calories 65, total fat 4 g, carbohydrates 7 g, protein 1 g per serving
Save This simple festive treat is the perfect final touch to any holiday party or gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of cheese is used for the filling?
The filling uses softened cream cheese blended with powdered sugar and vanilla for a smooth, creamy texture.
- → Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes, the strawberries can be assembled and served without air frying, but the air fryer helps set the chocolate detail lightly.
- → How do you prepare the strawberries for decoration?
Wash, dry, and slice off the leafy end so each strawberry stands upright before filling and topping.
- → What is the purpose of the melted white chocolate?
The melted white chocolate forms a ring around the base to mimic the fur trim of the Santa hats.
- → Are there alternative fillings recommended?
Whipped cream or Greek yogurt can be used as lighter alternatives to the cream cheese filling.