Pin It 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.
Ingredients
- For the Crackers: 24 round or square whole wheat crackers
- For the Crackers: 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
- For the Roasted Red Pepper Dip: 60 g (1/4 cup) roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- For the Roasted Red Pepper Dip: 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- For the Roasted Red Pepper Dip: 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- For the Roasted Red Pepper Dip: 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- For the Roasted Red Pepper Dip: Pinch of salt
- For Decoration: 24 thin strips of black olives (for the belt)
- For Decoration: 24 small squares of yellow bell pepper or cheddar (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.
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Pin It Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of cheese works best for the crackers?
Sharp cheddar provides a rich, tangy flavor that melts well, complementing the creamy dip.
- → Can I use different crackers for this dish?
Yes, whole wheat or gluten-free crackers can be used to accommodate dietary preferences.
- → How is the roasted red pepper dip prepared?
The dip blends cream cheese, roasted red peppers, mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- → What is the purpose of the black olive strips?
The strips mimic a belt design on top of the dip, adding a decorative and savory element to the crackers.
- → Can this snack be prepared in advance?
Yes, the dip can be made ahead and crackers arranged shortly before serving to keep textures fresh.
- → Are there suggested drink pairings?
Sparkling apple cider or a light Pinot Noir complement the savory and creamy flavors nicely.
