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 brings a festive touch to any party and always delights my guests with its charming presentation.
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)
- Garnish (optional): 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Garnish (optional): 1 small red bell pepper, diced finely
- Garnish (optional): 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 has become a family favorite for holiday parties, always bringing smiles and compliments from guests.
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Serving Suggestions
Pair with sparkling wine or a light white wine for a festive touch.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, cream cheese) and gluten (crackers unless gluten-free used). Always check packaging for potential allergens if serving guests with allergies.
Save 
Enjoy this elegant appetizer that adds a whimsical yet simple touch to your holiday gatherings.
Recipe FAQs
- → What types of cheese work best for this dish?
Semi-firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or swiss are ideal because they hold their shape well when cut into snowflakes and provide a creamy texture.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and assemble the bites, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to maintain freshness and shape.
- → Are there gluten-free alternatives for the crackers?
Gluten-free crackers can be used as a substitute to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising the bite's crispness.
- → How can I prevent the cheese from sliding off the crackers?
Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or a soft spreadable cheese on each cracker to act as an adhesive for the snowflake cheese slices.
- → What garnishes enhance flavor and appearance?
Finely chopped fresh herbs, diced red bell pepper, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper add both visual appeal and depth of flavor.
- → Can these bites be paired with beverages?
Light white wines or sparkling wines complement the delicate flavors and festive nature of the bites very well.