Pin to Board A festive, bite-sized party snack featuring sharp cheddar cheese cubes skewered on crispy pretzel sticks, perfect for ringing in the New Year.
This recipe has been a hit at every New Year's Eve celebration I have hosted, bringing a festive and delicious flair to the snack table.
Ingredients
- Cheese: 200 g (about 7 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 2 cm (¾-inch) cubes
- Garnishes: 2 tbsp chopped chives or fresh parsley (optional), 1 tbsp poppy seeds or toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Crunchy Base: 24 thin pretzel sticks
- Optional Additions: 24 seedless red or green grapes, 24 cherry tomato halves
Instructions
- Arrange Cheese:
- Arrange the cheddar cheese cubes on a plate or tray.
- Add Garnishes:
- If desired, roll or sprinkle the tops of some cheese cubes with chopped chives, parsley, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds for variety.
- Skewer Cheese:
- Skewer each cheddar cube onto one end of a pretzel stick to resemble a sparkler.
- Add Color:
- For extra color and flavor, add a grape or cherry tomato half to the pretzel before adding the cheese cube.
- Serve:
- Stand the sparklers upright on a serving platter for a festive display. Serve immediately.
Pin to Board These sparklers always light up our family gatherings, making snack time memorable and fun.
Notes
For extra flair, use a mix of different cheeses, such as gouda, pepper jack, or smoked cheddar. Serve with honey mustard or a spicy dip on the side.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, serving platter
Allergen Information
Sesame seeds may be an allergen if used. Always check labels for possible cross-contamination.
Pin to Board 
This simple yet festive recipe is sure to impress your guests with minimal effort every New Year's Eve.
Common Questions
- → What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese cubes are ideal for balancing flavor and firmness, but you can try gouda or pepper jack for variety.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
It's best to assemble just before serving to keep pretzel sticks crunchy and fresh.
- → Are there any garnish suggestions?
Chopped chives, fresh parsley, poppy seeds, or toasted sesame seeds add flavor and visual appeal.
- → What optional additions complement this snack?
Seedless red or green grapes and cherry tomato halves add color and a refreshing contrast.
- → What dips pair well with this snack?
Serve with honey mustard or a spicy dip to enhance the savory flavors.