Santa Hat Crispy-Treat Cheesecake Squares

Santa Hat Crispy-Treat Cheesecake Squares are a festive, no-bake holiday dessert that combines the gooey fun of marshmallow crispy treats with creamy cheesecake and juicy strawberries on top. Finished with a dollop of whipped cream to complete the “hat,” they’re as cute as they are delicious—and I love making them every December.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how these treats are the perfect mix of playful and indulgent. The crispy base is nostalgic and easy to make, while the cheesecake layer adds a rich, creamy contrast. The strawberry Santa hats make them a total showstopper on the dessert table, and I don’t even have to turn on the oven. They’re always a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the base:

• Crispy rice cereal

• Mini marshmallows

• Unsalted butter

• Vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

For the cheesecake layer:

• Cream cheese, softened

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

• Whipped topping or whipped cream

For the Santa hats:

• Fresh strawberries, hulled

• Whipped cream (homemade or canned, for the “hat” trim)

Directions

1. I melt the butter and marshmallows together until smooth, then stir in vanilla and salt.

2. I mix in the crispy rice cereal and press it evenly into a lined baking dish.

3. While the base sets, I beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth, then fold in whipped topping.

4. I spread the cheesecake layer over the cooled crispy base and chill the whole thing until firm—about 1 hour.

5. Once set, I cut the bars into squares and top each with an upside-down strawberry.

6. I pipe or dollop whipped cream around the base of each strawberry and a little “pom-pom” on top to complete the Santa hat look.

7. I keep them chilled until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 squares and takes around 20 minutes to prepare, plus 1 hour to chill before decorating and serving.

Variations

• I sometimes add crushed peppermint or holiday sprinkles to the crispy base for extra cheer.

• For a chocolate twist, I drizzle melted chocolate over the cheesecake layer before adding the strawberries.

• I’ve used flavored cream cheese (like vanilla or strawberry) for a fun variation.

• To make them bite-sized, I press the mixture into mini muffin tins instead of slicing into squares.

Storage/Reheating

These treats are best stored in the fridge, loosely covered, for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing, as the crispy base loses its texture. I keep the whipped cream topping as fresh as possible by adding it just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, I make the base and cheesecake layer a day ahead, then add the strawberries and whipped cream the day I plan to serve them so everything stays fresh.

How do I keep the crispy base from sticking?

I line the pan with parchment and lightly grease it, and I use a buttered spatula or wax paper to press the mixture evenly without it sticking to my hands.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Definitely. I whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla for a fresher flavor. It holds better if I stabilize it with a bit of cream cheese or gelatin.

Are these suitable for kids to help with?

Absolutely. Kids love helping decorate the Santa hats and pressing the cereal into the pan—it’s a great holiday kitchen activity.

What can I use if strawberries aren’t in season?

I’ve used small ice cream cones or dipped mini cookies as alternative “hats.” Or I skip the Santa hat design and just serve them as festive cheesecake bars.

Conclusion

Santa Hat Crispy-Treat Cheesecake Squares are a holiday favorite I look forward to making every year. They’re festive, easy, and full of charm—perfect for parties, dessert trays, or just a fun treat to get into the holiday spirit. One bite, and I’m instantly in a merry mood.

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