Save to Pinterest A festive, elegant appetizer featuring juicy grapes enrobed in creamy cheese and toasted nuts, arranged to resemble a sparkling grape cluster — perfect for ringing in the New Year.
I love serving this appetizer at holiday parties because it looks impressive yet is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- Grapes: 3 cups seedless green grapes, washed and thoroughly dried, 3 cups seedless red grapes, washed and thoroughly dried
- Cheese Coating: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened, 2 oz (55 g) goat cheese, softened, 1 tbsp honey, 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- Nut & Garnish Coating: 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped and lightly toasted, 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped and lightly toasted, 1/4 cup edible gold or silver sprinkles or edible glitter (optional for sparkle), 12-14 small mint leaves (for garnish optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, blend the cream cheese, goat cheese, honey, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2:
- Using a small spoon or your fingers, coat each grape lightly with the cheese mixture.
- Step 3:
- Roll the coated grapes in the chopped nuts, pressing gently to adhere. For extra sparkle, lightly roll some grapes in edible glitter or sprinkles after the nuts.
- Step 4:
- Arrange the grapes on a serving platter in the shape of a grape cluster, alternating green and red for a festive look.
- Step 5:
- Decorate with mint leaves to mimic grape leaves.
- Step 6:
- Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to firm up the cheese coating.
Save to Pinterest This appetizer always sparks joy at our family gatherings and encourages conversation.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, spoon or small spatula, baking sheet for toasting nuts, sharp knife for chopping nuts, serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese) and tree nuts (pistachios pecans). Not suitable for those with nut or dairy allergies. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 170, total fat 10 g, carbohydrates 16 g, protein 4 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This appetizer combines visual appeal with delightful flavors making it a perfect start to any celebration.
Common Questions
- → How do I prevent grapes from becoming soggy?
Ensure grapes are thoroughly dried before coating with cheese to avoid excess moisture. Chilling after assembling also helps maintain firmness.
- → Can I use other nuts besides pistachios and pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be substituted and toasted similarly for a different flavor and texture.
- → What is the best way to soften cream cheese for coating?
Allow cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave briefly in short bursts until spreadable but not melted.
- → How can I add sparkle without edible glitter?
Edible gold or silver sprinkles offer a festive shine, or finely chopped candied ginger can add sparkle with a flavor twist.
- → How long should the grapes chill before serving?
At least 15 minutes chills the cheese coating to firm texture, but storing up to a few hours in the fridge is fine if covered properly.