These Penguin Poppers are a playful, no-bake appetizer that’s perfect for holiday parties and family gatherings. Kids love helping assemble these cute penguin-shaped snacks, making them a fun activity as well as a tasty bite. With simple ingredients and an adorable presentation, they’re sure to be a hit at any festive table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe :

• Fun, hands-on appetizer kids can help make

• No cooking required

• Perfect for holiday parties and themed spreads

• Cute presentation that guests will remember

Equipment :

• Cutting board

• Sharp knife

• Small spoon or knife (for stuffing olives)

• Decorative cocktail picks

• Baking sheet or plate (for chilling)

Ingredients :

• 1 large carrot, peeled

• 1 (6-ounce) can small black olives, drained

• 1 (7.25-ounce) can jumbo black olives, drained

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature

• Decorative cocktail picks

• 1–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for decoration)

Instructions :

1. Cut the carrot crosswise about 6 inches from the thicker end. From the thicker piece, cut a small V-shaped notch down the length. Slice into 1/4-inch-thick rounds to create the penguins’ feet.

2. Cut the thinner end of the carrot into 24 small matchsticks to form the penguins’ beaks.

3. Insert a carrot matchstick into the hole of each small olive to create the penguin heads.

4. Cut a small wedge out of each jumbo olive to create a cavity. Carefully stuff each olive with cream cheese.

5. Place the stuffed olives in the freezer for 5–10 minutes to firm up.

6. To assemble, slide a penguin head onto a cocktail pick, followed by a stuffed olive body.

7. Press the tip of the pick into a carrot “foot.”

8. Arrange the penguins on a platter over shredded mozzarella “snow” and serve immediately.

Tips & Notes :

• Chill the stuffed olives briefly to make assembly easier.

• Use a piping bag or plastic bag with the corner snipped for neater filling.

• Assemble shortly before serving for best appearance.

Storage & Make-Ahead :

• Make-Ahead: Prep components a few hours in advance and assemble just before serving.

• Fridge: Store assembled penguins for up to 4 hours.

• Freezer: Not recommended beyond brief chilling.

• Reheat: Not applicable.

Serving Suggestions :

• Serve as part of a holiday appetizer table

• Pair with other kid-friendly snacks

• Display on a festive platter for parties

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can kids help make this recipe?
A1: Yes, this is a great hands-on recipe for kids with adult supervision.

Q2: Can I use flavored cream cheese?
A2: Yes, plain works best visually, but mild flavors are fine.

Q3: How do I keep the penguins standing upright?
A3: Make sure the carrot feet are flat and press the pick firmly into them.