Save to Pinterest Whimsical, kid-friendly snacks inspired by colorful hot air balloons—perfect for parties, picnics, or fun playdates.
These snacks quickly became a hit with my kids—they love helping me assemble the balloons and enjoy eating these fun treats.
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 to Pinterest Serving these at family gatherings always brings smiles and sparks fun conversations about the colorful balloons.
Notes
For a sweeter version, substitute cheese with marshmallows and use fruit-only combinations.
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.
Save to Pinterest These balloon snacks add a festive touch to any occasion and are a fun way to enjoy healthy ingredients.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → How can I keep the snacks fresh before serving?
Cover and refrigerate the assembled snacks for up to 2 hours to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
- → What can I use as an alternative to cream cheese or hummus for binding?
Try using nut butter or a thick yogurt spread, keeping in mind any dietary preferences or allergies.
- → Are there ways to make these snacks sweeter?
Yes, substitute cheese with marshmallows and use fruit-only combinations like grapes and tomatoes for a sweeter version.
- → Can I add extra vegetables for crunch?
Mini cucumber slices or bell pepper squares add refreshing crunch and vibrant colors to these snacks.
- → What is the best way to assemble these snacks for stability?
Thread ingredients tightly on pretzel sticks and firmly press the stick base into the cracker using spread as glue.