Pin 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 has become my go-to appetizer for holiday gatherings because it impresses guests with minimal effort.
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 This appetizer always brings smiles to our family parties—kids and adults alike enjoy the creative shapes and fresh flavors.
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 This appetizer is a simple yet elegant way to impress guests and celebrate the season.
Recipe Q&A
- → What types of cheese work best for the snowflake shapes?
Semi-firm cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or swiss slice cleanly and hold their shape well for the snowflake cuts.
- → How can I make the cheese stick to the crackers?
Spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or soft spreadable cheese on the crackers helps the snowflake cheese adhere securely.
- → Can I prepare these bites in advance?
Yes, arrange the bites on a platter, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to two hours before serving.
- → Are there gluten-free options available?
Using gluten-free crackers allows this appetizer to suit gluten-free dietary needs without compromising flavor or presentation.
- → What garnishes enhance flavor and appearance?
Finely chopped fresh herbs, diced red bell pepper, and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper add vibrant color and subtle flavor contrasts.
- → Can I vary the texture or freshness of the bites?
Adding thin slices of cucumber or radish beneath the cheese introduces extra crunch and a refreshing element to the bites.