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 was a big hit at our last holiday party, everyone loved the cute snowflake design and the creamy cheese flavors.
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 34 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 always enjoys making these together during the holidays, turning it into a fun little craft session as well.
Notes
Feel free to use different cheeses for color and flavor contrast. Add a thin slice of cucumber or radish beneath the cheese for extra crunch and freshness. Pair with sparkling wine or a light white wine for a festive touch.
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 light and charming appetizer adds whimsical beauty to any gathering and is sure to impress your guests.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What types of cheese work best for the snowflake shapes?
Semi-firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or swiss sliced about 3-4 mm thick hold their shape well for cutting snowflakes.
- → Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular crackers with certified gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary needs.
- → How can I ensure the cheese stays on the crackers?
Spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or soft spreadable cheese on each cracker helps the snowflake cheese shapes adhere better.
- → Are there garnish options to enhance flavor and appearance?
Fresh chopped herbs like chives, parsley, or dill, along with diced red bell pepper or cracked black pepper, add both color and a subtle flavor boost.
- → What is the best way to serve these bites at a party?
Arrange them on a platter and serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate up to 2 hours in advance to keep them fresh and crisp.
- → Can I add extra crunch beneath the cheese?
Thin slices of cucumber or radish under the cheese add a refreshing crunch and complement the creamy texture.