Pin it 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 recipe reminds me of cozy winter evenings spent with family, sharing festive treats and making memories.
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.
Pin it This appetizer always brings smiles at our family gatherings and creates a festive atmosphere.
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.
Pin it
Enjoy this charming appetizer at your next celebration for a festive touch that delights guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → What types of cheese work best for the snowflake shapes?
Semi-firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or swiss work well as they hold shape when cut thinly and provide a creamy texture.
- → How can I make sure the cheese sticks to the crackers?
Spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or soft spreadable cheese on the crackers helps the snowflake cheese pieces adhere securely.
- → Can I prepare the cheese snowflakes in advance?
You can cut and assemble the cheese snowflakes onto crackers ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate for up to two hours before serving.
- → Are there garnish suggestions to enhance flavor and presentation?
Fresh chopped herbs, finely diced red bell pepper, or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper add both visual appeal and complementary flavors.
- → Is there an option for gluten-free crackers?
Yes, substituting regular crackers with gluten-free ones accommodates guests with gluten sensitivities without altering the overall taste.
- → What tools are needed to create the snowflake shapes?
A small snowflake-shaped cookie cutter is essential, along with a sharp knife and a spatula or butter knife for assembly.