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 festive appetizer has been a hit at every holiday party Ive brought it to, always disappearing fast.
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 This recipe always brings a smile to my familys faces during the holidays when we enjoy it together
Required Tools
Baking sheet Parchment paper Mixing bowl Spoon or piping bag Small knife
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese cream cheese mayonnaise) wheat (crackers) and eggs (mayonnaise if not egg-free) Check all ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 70 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 5 g Protein 2 g (per serving 1 cracker plus dip)
Save to Pinterest This easy festive appetizer will add joy to any party with minimal effort
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheese works best for the crackers?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for its strong flavor and melts nicely on crackers.
- → Can I use other types of crackers?
Yes, both round or square whole wheat crackers work well and hold toppings firmly.
- → How is the roasted red pepper dip made?
The dip combines cream cheese, chopped roasted red peppers, mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt for a smooth, flavorful spread.
- → How do I create the belt decoration?
Thin strips of black olives form the belt across the dip, while small yellow bell pepper or cheddar squares serve as the buckle.
- → Can these be made gluten- or dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute gluten-free crackers and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.