Delightful Cream Cheese Penguins

Name: Delightful Cream Cheese Penguins
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 24 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 24 large black olives (pitted); 1 package cream cheese (softened); 24 small carrot rounds (sliced thin); 24 medium black olives (pitted, cut in half for wings)

20 min 24 servings Easy

All Recipes

Create adorable cream cheese penguins as a playful appetizer, perfect for parties and guaranteed to impress your guests.

Prep

20 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Cream cheese penguins are not just an appetizer; they're a conversation starter. These cute and edible penguins are crafted with black olives, cream cheese, and carrots, making them the perfect whimsical addition to any gathering. This recipe works because it combines simple, accessible ingredients with a creative presentation. The contrast of the cream cheese against the olives gives each penguin a striking appearance, while the carrots add a pop of colour and a mild crunch. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or a casual get-together, these cream cheese penguins are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. They're easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making party planning a breeze.

Instructions

Prepare the Carrot Feet

Slice the carrot into 24 thin rounds. Cut a small notch from each round to create feet.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Stuff the Olives

Fill a piping bag with softened cream cheese. Pipe the cream cheese into each large olive.

Pro tip: A ziplock bag with a corner snipped off works too.

Assemble the Penguins

Place each stuffed olive on a carrot round, cream cheese side up. This forms the body and feet.

Pro tip: Ensure the olive is stable on the carrot.

Attach the Wings

Attach a half olive on each side of the stuffed olives using the cream cheese as glue.

Pro tip: Press gently to secure the wings.

Create the Heads

Place a medium olive (head) on top of the stuffed olive, using cream cheese to secure it.

Pro tip: Align the notches for a beak-like appearance.

Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the assembled penguins for at least 15 minutes before serving to firm up the cheese.

Pro tip: Cover loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use small carrots for precise penguin feet.
Choose jumbo olives for easy stuffing.
Chill penguins before serving to enhance flavours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to make cream cheese penguins?

To make cream cheese penguins, stuff large black olives with cream cheese, assemble them with carrot rounds, and use additional olives for heads and wings.

Can cream cheese penguins be made ahead?

Yes, you can prepare cream cheese penguins up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What type of olives are best for cream cheese penguins?

Use large black olives for the body and medium olives for the head and wings.

How long do cream cheese penguins last?

Cream cheese penguins can last up to 24 hours in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

Are cream cheese penguins suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, cream cheese penguins are a vegetarian-friendly appetizer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these charming cream cheese penguins on a platter with other finger foods or as part of a themed buffet. They pair well with crisp white wines or sparkling cider for a non-alcoholic option. To make ahead, prepare the penguins and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This ensures they remain fresh and the cream cheese stays firm. Arrange them just before serving to maintain their cute appearance.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

Protein

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