Save Pin 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 Santa hat strawberries with my kids during the holidays; it brings joy and tasty smiles to our celebrations.
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 Pin Making these treats with my family always creates warm holiday memories filled with laughter and delicious delights.
Preparation Time
15 minutes of prep makes this a quick festive treat.
Cooking Time
Just 3 minutes in the air fryer sets the chocolate perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
Save Pin These adorable treats add holiday cheer with minimal effort and maximum delight.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prepare the strawberries for filling?
Wash and dry the strawberries, then slice off the leafy ends so they stand upright, ready to be filled.
- → What can I use instead of cream cheese for the filling?
Whipped cream or Greek yogurt can replace cream cheese for a lighter, tangy filling alternative.
- → How does the air fryer enhance this treat?
The air fryer lightly sets the melted white chocolate around the strawberries, firming the decoration without overcooking.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can chill the finished treats for up to two hours before serving to keep them fresh and firm.
- → What toppings add texture and appearance?
Mini marshmallows create the Santa hat pom-pom, and melted white chocolate forms a fur-like trim around the strawberries.