Save to Pinterest 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 with my family every holiday season; they bring smiles to 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-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 to Pinterest We cherish the moment when everyone gathers around the table to enjoy these sweet treats together.
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
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese white chocolate). Contains soy (possible in some white chocolates). Contains coconut (if using coconut oil). Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy making this delightful holiday treat that’s sure to impress everyone at your party.
Questions & Answers
- → How do I prepare the strawberries for filling?
Wash and thoroughly dry strawberries, then slice off the leafy end so they can stand upright and receive the filling.
- → What is the best way to make the cheesecake filling smooth?
Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and free of lumps.
- → Can I use alternatives to cream cheese for the filling?
Yes, whipped cream or Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter, tangier filling variation.
- → How does the air fryer help with this dish?
The air fryer lightly sets the melted white chocolate trim on the strawberries, giving a firm and neat finish.
- → What decorations make the strawberry hats more festive?
Mini marshmallows serve as the hat pom-poms, while white chocolate piped around the base mimics the hat’s fur trim.
- → Are there allergen concerns to be aware of?
This dish contains dairy from cream cheese and white chocolate, soy possibly in some chocolates, and coconut if oil is used; check all labels carefully.