Strawberry Santas

Strawberry Santas first happened in my kitchen when I needed something fun and festive that didn’t involve baking and I had a big bowl of strawberries that were just ripe enough to use and a can of whipped cream in the fridge. With a little creativity and some candy eyes and suddenly I had a tray of mini Santas that looked straight out of the North Pole.

Since then and these adorable little treats have become a staple at every holiday party I host and especially when kids are around. They’re light and sweet and so cheerful to look at and even better and they come together in minutes. Everyone loves popping one in their mouth and smiling at the next one waiting on the plate!

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Fresh strawberries – Serve as the base and Santa’s hat with their festive red color.
• Whipped cream – Used to create Santa’s beard and fluffy hat trim.
• Mini chocolate chips – Make perfect little eyes for our strawberry Santas.
• White chocolate chips or small candies – Create a cute nose or a happy smile.
• Small orange candies or sprinkles – Optional hats or buttons for extra flair.

Tools You’ll Need

• Paring knife – To carefully slice the tops and bases of the strawberries.
• Piping bag or nozzle can of whipped cream – For neatly shaping Santa’s beard and hat details.
• Toothpicks or tweezers – Useful for placing small candies or chips for eyes and noses.
• Plate or serving tray – To arrange and chill your completed Strawberry Santas.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Strawberries

I start by washing the strawberries well and patting them dry. Then I slice off the green tops to create a flat base and carefully cut across the top third of the berry to make the “hat.”

Step 2: Add the Beard

I pipe a generous swirl of whipped cream onto the bottom piece to form Santa’s beard. I try not to overdo it so the hat still fits back on easily.

Step 3: Add the Eyes and Face

Using tweezers or clean fingers and I press two mini chocolate chips into the whipped cream for eyes. Sometimes I add a tiny candy or chocolate piece for a nose or mouth depending on the look I’m going for.

Step 4: Place the Hat

I gently place the strawberry tip back on top like a Santa hat. Then I add a little dot of whipped cream to the top as a pom-pom.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

For an extra festive touch and I sometimes add a sprinkle of edible glitter or a mini candy cane. Then I refrigerate the tray until I’m ready to serve.

Tips

If your whipped cream is too soft and it helps to chill it first for better piping and shaping.

I recommend making these right before serving so they stay fresh and firm.

Use dairy-free whipped cream if you need a vegan-friendly version.

Ways to Serve

I love using these as a topping on cupcakes or holiday cakes.

They’re perfect on a festive fruit platter or dessert table.

Serve them in mini cupcake liners for a neat and adorable presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Strawberry Santas ahead of time?

Yes and I usually make them just an hour or two before serving and keep them chilled.

What kind of whipped cream works best for Strawberry Santas?

Stabilized or canned whipped cream holds its shape best for decorating.

Can I freeze Strawberry Santas?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing and as the strawberries and whipped cream don’t thaw well.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these Strawberry Santas this holiday season! They’re festive and fruity and just the right touch of whimsy for your dessert table. Let me know how yours turn out or if you give them their own unique little twist!

Happy Cooking!

Print