Penguin Appetizers

These little penguin appetizers bring instant winter magic to the table. Cozy, cheerful, and delightfully playful, they’re just as fun to make as they are to eat – especially with kids helping assemble the tiny carrot beaks and olive “tuxedos.”

Creamy cheese, sweet carrots, and briny olives come together in the cutest no-cook bites that feel festive without any fuss. Perfect for winter gatherings, holiday parties, or even a cozy family breakfast or brunch, these penguins always steal the show and spark smiles the moment they arrive.

Why You’ll Love Them

These cute little appetizers are naturally gluten-free, offering a good source of calcium and vitamin B12 when made with goat cheese, and contain healthy fats that help with satiety. They’re light yet nourishing, low in carbohydrates, and perfect for mindful snacking – whether you’re setting out a winter appetizer board, hosting a relaxed brunch, or enjoying a fun, wholesome bite with family.

Ingredients for Penguin Appetizers

• 36 – 40 large black olives, pitted
• 18 – 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine) or 8 oz (225 g) goat cheese, rolled into 1-inch balls
• 1 large raw carrot, peeled (120 g)

Recommended Equipment

• 18 – 20 toothpicks or cocktail skewers
• Sharp knife to cut olives and carrots

Shop this recipe and kitchen essential here!

How to Make Penguin Appetizers

Prep the Cheese: If using goat cheese, roll a small amount into 1-inch balls. Repeat with the remaining cheese until you have 18–20 balls.

Chef’s Tip – Mozzarella vs. Goat Cheese:

• Use mozzarella for a clean, mild flavor and a polished look.
• Use goat cheese for a bold, tangy, gourmet bite – chill before shaping for cleaner edges.

Prepare the Carrots: Peel and slice the carrot into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick rounds. From each round, cut small wedges for the feet, then trim tiny triangles from those wedges to use as the beaks.

Prepare the Olives: Slice 18–20 olives lengthwise.

• One half will be used for the body/wings
• The remaining whole olives will be used for the heads

Chef’s Tip – Uniformity Is Key: Choose olives and cheese balls similar in size for a cohesive, professional look.

Assemble the Penguins:

1. Place a carrot “feet” wedge flat on the board.
2. Set a mozzarella ball or goat cheese ball on top.
3. Gently press an olive half (body) against the cheese.
4. Insert a small carrot triangle into a whole olive to create the beak.
5. Place the olive head on top of the cheese.
6. Secure everything with a toothpick from top to bottom.

Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to help the penguins firm up and hold their shape.
Serve on a dark wood board or slate and garnish with fresh herbs or citrus peel for contrast.

Storage: These penguin appetizers can be assembled up to 6 hours in advance. Store covered in a deep, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.