What type of cheese works best for these sparklers?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its firm texture and rich flavor, but gouda or pepper jack also work well for variety.

Can I prepare these in advance?

It's best to assemble sparklers just before serving to keep pretzels crisp and cheese fresh.

Chopped chives, fresh parsley, poppy seeds, or toasted sesame seeds add subtle flavor and attractive visuals.

Incorporate seedless grapes or cherry tomato halves between the cheese and pretzel sticks for vibrant color contrast.

Honey mustard or spicy dips provide a flavorful accompaniment to these crisp bites.

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

These sparklers were a hit at our New Year celebration, making the party extra special and fun to snack on.

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.

These sparklers have brought joy to many family gatherings, always sparking smiles and conversation.

Serve with honey mustard or a spicy dip on the side for added flavor and contrast.

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.

A quick and delightful appetizer that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any festive occasion.

→ What type of cheese works best for these sparklers?: Sharp cheddar is ideal for its firm texture and rich flavor, but gouda or pepper jack also work well for variety.
→ Can I prepare these in advance?: It's best to assemble sparklers just before serving to keep pretzels crisp and cheese fresh.
→ Are there any suggested garnishes to enhance flavor?: Chopped chives, fresh parsley, poppy seeds, or toasted sesame seeds add subtle flavor and attractive visuals.
→ How can I add more color to the presentation?: Incorporate seedless grapes or cherry tomato halves between the cheese and pretzel sticks for vibrant color contrast.
→ What dips complement these cheddar and pretzel combinations?: Honey mustard or spicy dips provide a flavorful accompaniment to these crisp bites.