Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Santa Hat Cheesecake Crispy Squares - featured image

Santa Hat Cheesecake Crispy Squares


  • Author: Nora Winslow
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

A festive and easy no-bake holiday dessert combining creamy cheesecake, crispy rice cereal, and adorable strawberry Santa hats.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups rice cereal
  • 10 oz mini marshmallows
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
  • 12 large fresh strawberries
  • 1 cup whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Make the crispy base: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Fold in rice cereal until fully coated. Press mixture into a lined 9×9-inch pan and flatten evenly.
  2. Prepare the cheesecake layer: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and lemon juice, mixing until combined. Slowly add heavy cream while beating until light and fluffy.
  3. Assemble the squares: Spread cheesecake filling evenly over the crispy base. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to set.
  4. Create the Santa hats: Cut tops off strawberries to create flat bottoms. Place strawberries point-side up on the cheesecake layer. Pipe whipped cream onto the tip of each strawberry to complete the hat.
  5. Slice and serve: Lift squares out of the pan using parchment paper. Slice into 12 pieces, each with a Santa hat. Serve immediately or store for later.

Notes

[‘Use parchment paper to make removing and slicing the squares easier.’, ‘Choose the freshest strawberries for the best presentation.’, ‘Chill thoroughly before slicing to ensure the cheesecake layer sets properly.’, ‘Get creative with toppings like edible glitter or crushed candy canes.’]

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 22
  • Fat: 10
  • Carbohydrates: 35
  • Protein: 3

Keywords: Santa Hat Cheesecake Crispy Squares, holiday dessert, no-bake recipe, festive treats, Christmas dessert