Santa Hat Crispy-Treat Cheesecake Squares

Santa Hat Crispy-Treat Cheesecake Squares are a fun and festive dessert that combines the delicious crunch of crispy rice treats with a creamy cheesecake layer. Topped with a mini Santa hat made of fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and marshmallows, these sweet treats are perfect for holiday parties or as a fun Christmas dessert for the whole family to enjoy.

Ingredients

• 4 cups crispy rice cereal
• 4 tbsp butter
• 10 oz mini marshmallows
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped cream
• Fresh strawberries, sliced
• Mini marshmallows
• Red food coloring

Directions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the crispy rice cereal until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and let it cool to set.
4. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
5. Gently fold in the whipped cream until smooth and creamy.
6. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crispy rice layer in the baking dish.
7. Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to set.
8. Once chilled, cut the dessert into squares.
9. To make the Santa hats, place a slice of strawberry on top of each square. Add a small dollop of whipped cream on top of the strawberry and finish with a mini marshmallow on top.
10. Use red food coloring to draw a line around the base of the strawberry to resemble a Santa hat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Flavored Cheesecake: Add a little peppermint extract to the cheesecake mixture for a minty holiday twist.
• Topping Options: For extra flavor, try using chocolate chips, crushed candies, or other fruits like raspberries in place of the strawberries.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crispy rice cereal to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the Santa Hat Crispy-Treat Cheesecake Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These squares can be frozen, but the whipped cream topping may not hold up well. It’s best to freeze just the cheesecake and crispy treat layers, adding the whipped cream and strawberries when ready to serve.
• Reheating: These treats are best served chilled, so there’s no need for reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows? Yes, you can use regular marshmallows, but you’ll need to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they melt properly.
2. Can I make these squares ahead of time? Yes, these can be made a day ahead of time. Just keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.
3. Can I use a different fruit for the Santa hats? While strawberries are traditionally used for the Santa hats, you can use raspberries or even red grapes for a unique twist.
4. Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream? Yes, you can use store-bought whipped topping if you prefer, but freshly whipped cream gives a richer flavor.
5. How do I get the red food coloring on the hats? Use a small brush or a toothpick to carefully draw a line around the base of the strawberry with the red food coloring.
6. Can I make the cheesecake layer without cream cheese? The cream cheese gives the cheesecake its rich, creamy texture, but you could try using Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese as a substitute.
7. Can I make these without the cheesecake layer? Yes, if you want to simplify the recipe, you can just make the crispy rice layer and top it with the whipped cream and fruit for a lighter treat.
8. Can I freeze these squares? These squares freeze well without the whipped cream topping. To freeze, wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
9. What other toppings can I use for the hats? Instead of mini marshmallows, you could use small dollops of cream cheese or a marshmallow fluff topping.
10. How do I know when the crispy rice layer is set? The crispy rice layer is set when it cools completely and becomes firm to the touch. It usually takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Conclusion

Santa Hat Crispy-Treat Cheesecake Squares are a festive, delicious, and fun treat that everyone will enjoy during the holiday season. The combination of crispy rice treats, cheesecake, and strawberry Santa hats makes this dessert as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these squares are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

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