Save Adorable, bite-sized treats modeled after chicks and ducklings, perfect for springtime parties or kids gatherings. These savory and slightly sweet snacks combine creamy cheese, eggs, and vegetables for delicious, playful bites.
I remember making these for my child's birthday party and everyone loved how cute and tasty they were.
Ingredients
- Main: 6 large eggs, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, Salt and pepper to taste, 60 g (2 oz) cream cheese softened, 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives
- Decoration: 1 medium carrot, 12 black peppercorns or black sesame seeds for eyes, 1 small piece of red bell pepper for beaks, 6 small yellow cherry tomatoes for duckling bodies, 6 small mozzarella balls bocconcini for duckling heads, Fresh parsley leaves optional for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Place eggs in a saucepan cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 9 minutes. Cool under cold running water then peel.
- Step 2:
- Halve 6 eggs lengthwise. Carefully remove yolks and place in a bowl.
- Step 3:
- Mash yolks with mayonnaise mustard cream cheese chives salt and pepper until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Spoon or pipe the mixture back into the egg white halves to create plump chick bodies. Use small carrot triangles for beaks and black peppercorns or sesame seeds for eyes. Optional Add small carrot feet at the base.
- Step 5:
- For ducklings halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Assemble each duckling by skewering a mozzarella ball head and cherry tomato body together using a toothpick. Attach a small red bell pepper triangle for the beak and use black sesame seeds for eyes.
- Step 6:
- Arrange chicks and ducklings on a platter with parsley leaves for a grassy look. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Save These treats always bring smiles to family gatherings especially when kids help assemble them.
Notes
For extra color use different colored cherry tomatoes. You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter filling. For a fun twist add a pinch of curry powder or smoked paprika to the filling.
Required Tools
Saucepan Mixing bowl Sharp knife Piping bag or small spoon Toothpicks
Allergen Information
Contains eggs and dairy cream cheese mozzarella. May contain mustard check Dijon. Always check cheese and mayonnaise labels for hidden allergens.
Save These chick & duckling snacks are perfect as playful appetizers and are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent egg yolks from turning green after boiling?
Simmer eggs for exactly 9 minutes and quickly cool them under cold running water to avoid the greenish ring caused by overcooking.
- → Can I use yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the filling?
Yes, substituting mayonnaise with Greek yogurt adds a lighter texture while maintaining creaminess in the yolk mixture.
- → What can I use for the eyes besides black peppercorns?
Black sesame seeds or small pieces of olives make excellent alternatives for creating the eyes on the chicks and ducklings.
- → How do I assemble the duckling snacks securely?
Use toothpicks to skewer a mozzarella ball for the head and a cherry tomato for the body, then add a small bell pepper triangle for the beak.
- → Are these snacks suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they contain no meat and rely on eggs, cheese, and vegetables, making them suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- → Can I prepare these snacks ahead of time?
Yes, arrange them on a platter and refrigerate until serving, but add fresh parsley garnish just before presenting for best appearance.