Save to Pinterest Whimsical, kid-friendly snacks inspired by colorful hot air balloons&mdashperfect for parties, picnics, or fun playdates.
I love making these with my kids because they enjoy threading the ingredients and creating their own balloon snacks.
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 These snacks always bring joy to family gatherings especially when kids get involved in the assembly.
Variations
For a sweeter version, substitute cheese with marshmallows and use fruit-only combinations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of ranch dip or yogurt dip for extra flavor and fun dipping options.
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 This snack is as fun to make as it is to eat and perfect for any occasion that calls for colorful treats.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I assemble the balloon snacks?
Thread cherry tomatoes, grapes, cheddar cubes, and mozzarella balls alternately onto pretzel sticks. Spread hummus or cream cheese on mini crackers, then insert the pretzel stick bottoms into the crackers to secure.
- → Can I prepare these snacks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the assembled snacks for up to 2 hours before serving to keep them fresh.
- → Are there vegetarian options for these snacks?
Yes, the ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly, featuring fresh produce, cheeses, and pretzels.
- → What can I substitute for cheese for a sweeter version?
To create a sweeter twist, replace the cheese with marshmallows and use only fruit for the toppings.
- → Any suggestions to add extra crunch or color?
Try adding mini cucumber slices or bell pepper squares along with the other ingredients for enhanced crunch and vibrant colors.