Strawberry Santas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and simple this recipe is—just 15 minutes from start to finish, and no baking required. The contrast between the juicy strawberries and the fluffy, sweet cream cheese filling is delicious, and the mini chocolate chip eyes make them irresistibly cute. They’re also light and refreshing, which is a nice break from heavier holiday desserts. Plus, making them feels like crafting and snacking all in one.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pint fresh strawberries

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Mini chocolate chips or black sesame seeds (for eyes)

• Shredded coconut or extra cream cheese (optional, for beard or fur trim)

Directions

1. I start by washing the strawberries and patting them completely dry. Then I slice off the leafy tops so each strawberry can stand upright.

2. Next, I cut off the pointed tips of the strawberries—about one-third of the way down—to make the hats.

3. In a mixing bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

4. I transfer the filling into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped. I pipe a generous swirl onto the flat base of each strawberry to create the “face and beard.”

5. I gently place the cut-off strawberry tips back on top as Santa’s hats.

6. I add a small dot of cream filling to the tip of each hat to form a pom-pom.

7. For the eyes, I insert two mini chocolate chips or sesame seeds into the cream just below the hat.

8. If I want to go the extra mile, I sprinkle a bit of shredded coconut around the beard for an even fluffier look.

9. I chill the finished Santas in the fridge until ready to serve. They’re best enjoyed fresh the same day.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10 Strawberry Santas and comes together in just 15 minutes. Each one has around 45 kcal, making them a light, fun treat for all ages.

Variations

Sometimes I switch out the cream cheese for mascarpone or whipped cream for a different flavor. For a dairy-free version, I use a vegan cream cheese or coconut whipped topping. I’ve even added a drop of peppermint extract to the filling during the holidays for a festive twist. And if I want more texture, I roll the beards in coconut flakes before topping with the hat.

Storage/Reheating

I always keep Strawberry Santas chilled until serving—they hold their shape best when cold. I don’t recommend storing them for more than a day, as the strawberries can start to soften and release juice. There’s no reheating needed for this recipe, but if making them ahead, I prepare the filling and strawberries separately and assemble them just before serving to keep everything fresh.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Santas ahead of time?

Yes, I can prep the components in advance, but I prefer assembling them close to serving time to keep the strawberries firm and the filling fluffy.

Can I use whipped cream instead of cream cheese?

I’ve used whipped cream before, and it works well, but it’s softer and doesn’t hold its shape as long. Stabilized whipped cream works better if I need them to sit out longer.

What’s the best way to pipe the filling neatly?

I use a piping bag with a round tip or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off. I hold the strawberry steady and pipe slowly to create a clean swirl.

How do I keep the eyes from sinking into the cream?

I wait a minute or two after piping the cream before inserting the chocolate chips or sesame seeds. That gives the filling a chance to set slightly and hold them in place better.

Can I make these with kids?

Absolutely! I’ve made them with kids many times—it’s a great hands-on activity that lets everyone get creative decorating their own Santas.

Conclusion

Strawberry Santas are a festive, no-fuss holiday treat I can whip up in minutes. They’re light, sweet, and so much fun to make. Whether I’m putting together a dessert tray or getting the whole family involved in a holiday project, these little guys always steal the show. With their cute looks and delicious flavor, they’re sure to become a new seasonal favorite.

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