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.
A family favorite during the holidays, this recipe always brings smiles and compliments to our gatherings
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 This appetizer always lights up our holiday table and gets everyone into the festive spirit
Notes
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 These charming appetizers add a perfect touch of elegance to any holiday spread
Kitchen Guide
- → What cheeses work best for the snowflake shapes?
Semi-firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and swiss slice cleanly and hold their shape well when cut into snowflakes.
- → Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free crackers to suit dietary needs without sacrificing texture.
- → How do I keep the cheese shapes from sliding off the crackers?
Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or soft cheese on the crackers to help the snowflake shapes stick firmly.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors here?
Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill, along with diced red pepper and cracked black pepper, enhance both taste and festive appearance.
- → Can I prepare these bites in advance?
Yes, arrange and cover them, then refrigerate up to two hours before serving to maintain freshness.
- → Any tips for adding crunch or freshness?
Adding thin slices of cucumber or radish beneath the cheese introduces a refreshing crunch.