What type of cheese works best for this snack?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its firm texture and robust flavor, but varieties like gouda or pepper jack can also be used for variation.

Can I add other ingredients to the skewers?

Yes, adding seedless grapes or cherry tomato halves gives extra color and a fresh burst of flavor.

Assemble the sparklers just before serving to ensure the pretzel sticks remain crisp and crunchy.

Chopped chives, fresh parsley, poppy seeds, or toasted sesame seeds can be sprinkled on cheese cubes to enhance taste and appearance.

This snack can be served immediately and does not require refrigeration, but keeping cheese cool until assembly is recommended.

A festive, bite-sized party snack featuring sharp cheddar cheese cubes skewered on crispy pretzel sticks, perfect for ringing in the New Year.

This is a fun and colorful appetizer I first served at a holiday party, and it was a huge hit with guests.

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

Step 1:: Arrange the cheddar cheese cubes on a plate or tray.
Step 2:: If desired, roll or sprinkle the tops of some cheese cubes with chopped chives, parsley, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds for variety.
Step 3:: Skewer each cheddar cube onto one end of a pretzel stick to resemble a sparkler.
Step 4:: For extra color and flavor, add a grape or cherry tomato half to the pretzel before adding the cheese cube.
Step 5:: Stand the sparklers upright on a serving platter for a festive display. Serve immediately.

This recipe always brings my family together around the table during celebrations and sparks lots of smiles.

Serve with honey mustard or a spicy dip on the side for extra flavor.

Sharp knife, cutting board, serving platter

Contains milk (cheese) and wheat (pretzel sticks). Sesame seeds may be an allergen if used. Always check labels for possible cross-contamination.

These sparklers make creating a festive atmosphere quick and easy while impressing guests.

→ What type of cheese works best for this snack?: Sharp cheddar is ideal for its firm texture and robust flavor, but varieties like gouda or pepper jack can also be used for variation.
→ Can I add other ingredients to the skewers?: Yes, adding seedless grapes or cherry tomato halves gives extra color and a fresh burst of flavor.
→ How do I keep pretzels crunchy?: Assemble the sparklers just before serving to ensure the pretzel sticks remain crisp and crunchy.
→ Are there optional garnishes for added flavor?: Chopped chives, fresh parsley, poppy seeds, or toasted sesame seeds can be sprinkled on cheese cubes to enhance taste and appearance.
→ Is refrigeration necessary before serving?: This snack can be served immediately and does not require refrigeration, but keeping cheese cool until assembly is recommended.