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 recipe has become my go-to for festive parties because it looks impressive but takes very little time to assemble.
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 has become a holiday favorite with my family who love the fun shapes and fresh flavors on every bite.
Notes
Feel free to 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 packaging for allergens or cross-contamination if serving guests with allergies.
Save This appetizer brings holiday cheer to any gathering in just 20 minutes with minimal effort.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best for the snowflake shapes?
Semi-firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or swiss sliced 3–4 mm thick hold their shape well when cut into snowflakes.
- → How can I make the cheese stick to the crackers?
Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or soft spreadable cheese on each cracker before placing the cheese snowflake on top.
- → Are there any recommended garnishes to enhance flavor?
Finely chopped fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or dill, along with diced red bell pepper and cracked black pepper, add festive color and taste.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, arrange them on a platter and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to keep them fresh.
- → Is there a gluten-free alternative for this appetizer?
Using gluten-free crackers instead of regular ones ensures a gluten-free version without sacrificing crunch.