Pin 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 is always a hit at my New Year parties, bringing a touch of sparkle and elegance 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.
Pin My family loves gathering around the platter during celebrations, eagerly picking their favorite grapes and sharing stories.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp sparkling wine or Champagne for the ultimate celebration accompaniment.
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.
Tools Needed
Mixing bowl Spoon or small spatula Baking sheet (for toasting nuts) Sharp knife (for chopping nuts) Serving platter
Pin Enjoy your sparkling grape cluster as a refreshing and elegant start to any celebration.
Recipe Questions
- → What types of grapes work best for this appetizer?
Seedless green and red grapes are ideal because they provide a firm texture and vibrant color contrast, enhancing both appearance and taste.
- → Can I substitute the nuts in this dish?
Yes, pistachios and pecans can be swapped with walnuts or almonds depending on your preference and allergy considerations.
- → How do I achieve the sparkling effect on the grape cluster?
After coating grapes in cheese and nuts, rolling some in edible gold or silver glitter or sprinkles adds a festive sparkle.
- → What is the best way to prepare the cheese coating?
Blend softened cream cheese, goat cheese, honey, and salt until smooth to ensure an even, flavorful coating that adheres well to the grapes.
- → Can this appetizer be made dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cream cheese and omit goat cheese to accommodate dairy-free diets without losing creaminess.