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.
This appetizer always impresses guests at our New Year gatherings, bringing both flavor and visual appeal to the table.
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 Our family enjoys gathering around this appetizer during celebrations, always sparking compliments and requests for the recipe.
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
Per serving: Calories 170, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 16 g, Protein 4 g
Save to Pinterest This appetizer is quick to prepare and adds a sophisticated touch to any celebration.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different types of nuts for the coating?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can replace pistachios and pecans, providing a different yet delicious crunch.
- → How should I prepare grapes to ensure the coating sticks well?
Make sure grapes are thoroughly washed and completely dried before coating to help the cheese mixture adhere properly.
- → Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cheese coating?
Plant-based cream cheese can be used to replace dairy cream cheese and goat cheese for a dairy-free version.
- → What is the purpose of chilling the coated grapes before serving?
Chilling firms up the cheese coating for easier handling and a better texture when served.
- → Can I add sparkle without edible glitter?
Optionally, edible gold or silver sprinkles can be used to add festive shine if glitter is unavailable.