Save to Pinterest Festive and fun, these savory cheese crackers are topped with a creamy roasted red pepper dip and decorated to resemble Santas iconic belt—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This cozy chicken stew is something I first served to my family on a cold winter night and it quickly became a favorite.
Ingredients
- For the Crackers: 24 round or square whole wheat crackers
- Cheddar Cheese: 120 g (4 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, sliced into 24 small squares
- For the Roasted Red Pepper Dip: 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
- Roasted Red Peppers: 60 g (1/4 cup), drained and chopped
- Mayonnaise: 1 tbsp
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked Paprika: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: Pinch
- For Decoration: 24 thin strips of black olives (for the belt)
- Yellow Bell Pepper or Cheddar: 24 small squares (for the buckle)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Step 2:
- Arrange crackers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each cracker.
- Step 3:
- Bake for 4 5 minutes, just until cheese is melted but not bubbling. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Step 4:
- In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, roasted red peppers, mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Step 5:
- Spoon or pipe a dollop of dip onto the center of each cheese topped cracker.
- Step 6:
- Lay a black olive strip across the dip to form a belt. Place a small yellow pepper or cheddar square in the center as the buckle.
- Step 7:
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest My family always enjoys these crackers during our holiday parties; they are a hit with all ages.
Notes
Pairs nicely with sparkling apple cider or a light Pinot Noir. Contains dairy (cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise), wheat (crackers), and eggs (mayonnaise, if not egg free).
Required Tools
Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Mixing bowl, Spoon or piping bag, Small knife
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 cracker + dip): Calories 70, Total Fat 5 g, Carbohydrates 5 g, Protein 2 g
Save to Pinterest This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for any holiday gathering.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I prevent the cheese from over-melting on crackers?
Bake the crackers with cheese for just 4-5 minutes until the cheese softens but doesn't bubble, then remove promptly to avoid over-melting.
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can use gluten-free crackers and dairy-free cheese alternatives to accommodate dietary needs without compromising flavor.
- → What gives the dip its smooth texture and flavor?
The combination of cream cheese, roasted red peppers, mayonnaise, and gently spiced seasonings creates a creamy, flavorful dip.
- → How do the decorations add to the presentation?
Thin black olive strips form the belt, while yellow pepper or cheddar squares act as buckles, evoking Santa’s iconic belt for a festive look.
- → What drinks pair well with these crackers?
Light sparkling apple cider or a gentle Pinot Noir complement the savory and creamy flavors perfectly.