Save Whimsical, kid-friendly snacks inspired by colorful hot air balloons—perfect for parties, picnics, or fun playdates.
This fun snack idea always brightens up our family gatherings and gets the kids excited to eat something healthy.
Ingredients
- Fresh Produce: 1 pint cherry tomatoes (assorted colors), 1 cup seedless grapes (red, green, or mixed), 1 cup cubed cheddar cheese, 1 cup mini mozzarella balls
- Deli & Bakery: 8 pretzel sticks, 8 mini round crackers
- Pantry & Miscellaneous: 2 tablespoons hummus or cream cheese (for glue), Fresh parsley or basil leaves (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry all produce.
- Step 2:
- Thread cherry tomatoes, grapes, cheddar cubes, and mozzarella balls onto each pretzel stick, alternating colors and shapes to mimic a vibrant hot air balloon.
- Step 3:
- Spread a small dollop of hummus or cream cheese onto each mini cracker.
- Step 4:
- Gently press the bottom of each pretzel stick (with toppings) into the center of a cracker, securing it with the glue.
- Step 5:
- Arrange parsley or basil leaves around the base for a leafy effect, if desired.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save These snacks always bring a smile and spark fun conversations during family get-togethers.
Required Tools
Small knife, Toothpicks or skewers (optional for extra stability), Serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and wheat (cheese, crackers). Contains gluten (pretzel sticks, crackers). Check labels for potential nut traces in crackers and cheese if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 95, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 11 g, Protein: 4 g per snack
Save These hot air balloon snacks are a delightful and nutritious way to brighten any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes these snacks resemble hot air balloons?
Colorful cherry tomatoes, grapes, and cheese pieces are threaded onto pretzel sticks, creating the rounded shapes and vibrant colors reminiscent of hot air balloons.
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary preferences?
Yes, marshmallows can replace cheese for a sweeter version, and adding mini cucumber or bell pepper pieces adds extra crunch and color.
- → How do I keep the snacks fresh before serving?
Store assembled snacks covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to maintain freshness and texture.
- → What spreads are suitable as glue for topping on crackers?
Use hummus or cream cheese to secure the pretzel stick toppings firmly onto the mini crackers.
- → Are these snacks suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients used are vegetarian friendly, including cheese, produce, and pretzels.