Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, mixing cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or smoked cheddar adds flavor variety and complements the pretzels well.

How can I keep the pretzels crisp?

Assemble the skewers just before serving to maintain the pretzels’ crunch and freshness.

Chopped chives, fresh parsley, poppy seeds, or toasted sesame seeds can be added for extra texture and taste.

Seedless red or green grapes and cherry tomato halves add brightness and balance the sharpness of cheddar.

A sharp knife for cutting cheese, a cutting board, and a serving platter are sufficient for easy assembly.

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 simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer I first served at my last New Year's Eve party and it was a big hit.

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.

My family loves gathering around this easy appetizer during celebrations, making every occasion more special.

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.

Calories: 55 per sparkler, Total Fat: 3.6 g, Carbohydrates: 3.5 g, Protein: 2.8 g

This festive appetizer adds a colorful touch to any party and is sure to impress your guests.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?: Yes, mixing cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or smoked cheddar adds flavor variety and complements the pretzels well.
→ How can I keep the pretzels crisp?: Assemble the skewers just before serving to maintain the pretzels’ crunch and freshness.
→ Are there optional garnishes to enhance flavor?: Chopped chives, fresh parsley, poppy seeds, or toasted sesame seeds can be added for extra texture and taste.
→ What fruits pair well with the cheddar cubes?: Seedless red or green grapes and cherry tomato halves add brightness and balance the sharpness of cheddar.
→ Is special equipment needed to prepare the sparklers?: A sharp knife for cutting cheese, a cutting board, and a serving platter are sufficient for easy assembly.