Save A festive and elegant appetizer featuring crisp crackers topped with creamy cheese cut into delicate snowflake shapes—perfect for holiday gatherings or as a whimsical party starter.
This appetizer always delights my guests during the holidays with its charming appearance and delicious flavor combinations.
Ingredients
- Crackers: 24 round or square plain crackers (e.g., water crackers, butter crackers)
- Cheese: 200 g (7 oz) semi-firm cheese (e.g., cheddar, gouda, swiss), sliced 3>4 mm thick
- Garnish (optional): 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh herbs (e.g., chives, parsley, dill), 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, 1 small red bell pepper, diced finely, 2 tbsp cream cheese or soft spreadable cheese (for glue)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Using a small snowflake-shaped cookie cutter, cut snowflake shapes from the cheese slices.
- Step 2:
- Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each cracker to help the cheese adhere (optional but recommended).
- Step 3:
- Place a cheese snowflake on each cracker, pressing gently to secure.
- Step 4:
- Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped herbs, a few diced red pepper pieces, or a dusting of black pepper for festive color and flavor.
- Step 5:
- Arrange on a serving platter and serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save My family enjoys gathering around the table to prepare these charming crackers together, making it a joyful holiday tradition.
Notes
Add a thin slice of cucumber or radish beneath the cheese for extra crunch and freshness.
Required Tools
Small snowflake-shaped cookie cutter, sharp knife, cutting board, small offset spatula or butter knife
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, cream cheese) and gluten (crackers, unless gluten-free used). Always check cracker and cheese packaging for potential allergens or cross-contamination if serving to guests with allergies.
Save This appetizer is as fun to make as it is to eat, adding a festive touch to any gathering.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese works best for the snowflakes?
Semi-firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or swiss are ideal as they hold shape well when cut and provide a creamy texture.
- → Can I use gluten-free crackers for a dietary alternative?
Yes, gluten-free crackers can be used without affecting the overall presentation and flavor.
- → How do I make the cheese stick to the crackers?
Spreading a thin layer of cream cheese on the crackers helps the snowflake-shaped cheese adhere securely.
- → What garnishes complement the bites most effectively?
Fresh chopped herbs like chives or parsley, diced red bell pepper, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper add color and enhance the flavor.
- → How should these bites be served or stored before serving?
Arrange on a platter and serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to two hours to maintain freshness.