Some treats are almost too cute to eat. Almost that is, almost. Even better they are a healthy and happy treat for the holidays? These Strawberry Santas are as adorable as they are delicious! This creamy, sweet dessert made of fresh strawberries are perfect for diabetics or anyone looking for a light, low-sugar dessert.
Below, I’ll share the step-by-step instructions, and highlight the tools that make creating these little Santas easier.
Ingredients and Why They Work
For the Santas:
- 12 large strawberries: The star of the recipe! Fresh strawberries are naturally sweet, lower in carbs, and make the perfect “Santa” body and hat.
- 1 cup whipped cream cheese (or regular cream cheese): Whipped cream cheese creates a light, fluffy filling. Regular cream cheese adds a richer texture if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener: Sweetens the filling without raising blood sugar levels. Powdered sweeteners also blend seamlessly.
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and enhances the creamy filling’s flavor.
- Sugar-free decorative red and black icing (or melted sugar-free chocolate): Essential for adding the Santa faces and keeping things festive without extra sugar.
Instructions with Tools You’ll Love
- Prepare the Strawberries:
- Wash the strawberries gently and pat them dry with a clean towel. Cut the stem off each strawberry to create a flat bottom and slice off the tip to form the “hat.”
- Use a sharp paring knife for clean, precise cuts.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the whipped cream cheese, powdered erythritol, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Spoon the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a round or star tip. If you don’t have a piping bag, a ziplock bag with a small corner cut works perfectly.
- Assemble the Strawberry Santas:
- Place the flat-bottomed strawberry “body” on a serving plate. Pipe the cream cheese mixture onto the strawberry to create Santa’s beard.
- Add the strawberry “hat” on top of the filling. Pipe a small dollop of cream cheese at the top of the hat for the pompom.
- Add the Face:
- Use sugar-free red and black icing or melted sugar-free chocolate to carefully draw Santa’s eyes and a smile. A decorating pen or fine-tipped piping bag makes this step much easier.
- Serve or Store Strawberry Santas:
- Arrange the completed Strawberry Santas on a festive serving plate. Serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy them.
Tips and Tricks for Easy Assembly
- Dry Strawberries Thoroughly: Any leftover moisture can cause the cream cheese filling to slide off. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat them completely dry.
- Even Cuts: Use a sharp knife for uniform cuts to ensure the Santas sit flat and look neat.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the filling and prep the strawberries in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble the Santas right before serving for the freshest look.
- Use the Right Tools: A small paring knife, piping bag, and fine decorating tools make this recipe a breeze.
Why It’s Diabetic-Friendly
- Low-Carb Sweetener: Powdered erythritol or monk fruit mimics powdered sugar without spiking blood sugar.
- Naturally Sweet Strawberries: Strawberries add sweetness and festive color without the need for added sugar.
- Decorative Options: Sugar-free icing or melted chocolate keeps the decorations safe and delicious for diabetics.
Tools I Recommend
- Paring knife for precise cuts on strawberries.
- Reusable piping bags for easy filling and decorating.
- Decorating pens for drawing Santa’s face with precision.
- Serving plates to display these festive treats beautifully.
Find links to these tools here for a stress-free holiday baking experience! 🎅🍓
These Strawberry Santas are a perfect holiday treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Light, sweet, and festive, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone at your Christmas table. Serve them as a dessert, snack, or even as a creative addition to a holiday spread. 🎄🍓✨
Strawberry Santas – A Diabetic Safe Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 large strawberries
- 1 cup whipped cream cheese or regular cream cheese, softened, for a richer texture
- 2 tbsp powdered monk fruit sweetener
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- Sugar-free decorative red and black icing optional
Instructions
- Wash the strawberries carefully. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Cut the stem off each strawberry to create a flat bottom. Slice the top of each strawberry to make the "Santa hat."
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the whipped cream cheese, powdered monk fruit, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture into a piping bag fitted with a round or star tip.
- Place the flat-bottomed strawberry "body" on a serving plate.
Notes
- Powdered Sweetener: Powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener replicates the powdered sugar texture without spiking blood sugar.
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are naturally sweet but lower in carbs compared to other fruits.
- Decorations: Sugar-free icing or melted sugar-free chocolate ensures the details stay festive and diabetic-safe.
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