What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its firm texture and bold flavor that holds well on pretzel sticks.

Can I use other garnishes?

Yes, chopped chives, parsley, poppy seeds, or toasted sesame seeds add flavor and visual appeal.

Assemble sparklers just before serving to maintain pretzels' crunchiness and freshness.

Try mixing cheeses like gouda or pepper jack, or adding grapes and cherry tomatoes for extra color and taste.

Serve upright on a platter for a festive display alongside honey mustard or spicy dips.

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

I first served these sparklers at a New Year's Eve party and they were the biggest hit among guests of all ages.

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.

This dish always brings smiles during holiday celebrations and reminds me of joyful family gatherings.

Sharp knife, cutting board, serving platter

Calories: 55 per sparkler. Total Fat: 3.6 g. Carbohydrates: 3.5 g. Protein: 2.8 g.

Serve with honey mustard or a spicy dip on the side for extra flavor.

These sparklers are an easy and festive addition to any party table.

→ What type of cheese works best?: Sharp cheddar is ideal for its firm texture and bold flavor that holds well on pretzel sticks.
→ Can I use other garnishes?: Yes, chopped chives, parsley, poppy seeds, or toasted sesame seeds add flavor and visual appeal.
→ How to keep pretzels crisp?: Assemble sparklers just before serving to maintain pretzels' crunchiness and freshness.
→ Are there variations for added flavor?: Try mixing cheeses like gouda or pepper jack, or adding grapes and cherry tomatoes for extra color and taste.
→ What serving suggestions work well?: Serve upright on a platter for a festive display alongside honey mustard or spicy dips.