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 during the holidays because they bring a smile to everyone’s face and are so simple to prepare.
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 2&3 minutes to lightly set the chocolate (optional, for a firmer finish). Cool before serving.
Save This recipe has become a favorite at family gatherings, especially with kids eager to decorate and eat their Santa hats.
Preparation Tips
Make sure strawberries are dry to ensure filling sticks well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor and appearance.
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to maintain freshness.
Save These adorable Santa hats bring festive cheer quickly and easily to any holiday celebration.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prepare the strawberries for filling?
Wash and dry strawberries thoroughly, then slice off the leafy ends so they can stand upright for easy filling.
- → What can I use instead of cream cheese for the filling?
For a lighter option, you can substitute whipped cream or Greek yogurt to maintain a creamy texture.
- → How do I create the white trim effect on the hats?
Melt white chocolate chips with a bit of coconut oil and pipe or drizzle around the strawberry base to replicate fur trim.
- → Is air frying necessary for this dish?
Air frying is optional; it lightly sets the chocolate trim for a firmer finish but can be skipped if preferred.
- → Can these be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and chill them for up to 2 hours before serving to keep them fresh and tasty.