Save Festive, fun, and delicious, these holiday-themed crackers with a creamy dip are perfect for parties and family gatherings. The crackers are decorated to resemble Santas belt, bringing cheer to your holiday table.
These crackers have become a holiday staple in my family, always bringing smiles and compliments when served.
Ingredients
- Crackers & Decorations: 24 round buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz), 6 slices mild cheddar cheese, 24 small strips black olives (for belts), 12 small squares yellow bell pepper or cheddar (for belt buckles)
- Dip: 1 cup whipped cream cheese, 1/2 cup roasted red peppers finely chopped, 2 tbsp chives finely chopped, 1 tsp lemon juice, Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dip:
- In a medium bowl, combine whipped cream cheese roasted red peppers chives lemon juice salt and pepper. Mix until smooth. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Cut the cheddar cheese slices:
- Cut into circles slightly smaller than the crackers using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Place cheddar circles:
- Place a cheddar circle on each cracker.
- Form the belt:
- Lay a thin strip of black olive across the center of each cracker to form the belt.
- Add the belt buckle:
- Place a small square of yellow bell pepper or cheddar cheese in the center of the olive strip to represent the belt buckle.
- Arrange and serve:
- Arrange the decorated crackers on a platter around the bowl of dip and serve immediately.
Save Making these crackers always brings my family together as we chat and prepare the festive snacks.
Required Tools
Sharp knife Small round cookie cutter or glass Mixing bowl Spoon or spatula Serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains Milk Wheat (gluten) Some crackers may contain soy Double-check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern
Nutritional Information
Calories 130 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 10 g Protein 3 g (per serving of 3 crackers plus dip)
Save These festive crackers are a simple yet delightful appetizer sure to impress your guests and brighten your holiday gatherings.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I create the Santa’s belt effect on the crackers?
Cut cheddar cheese slices into small circles for the base, then add thin black olive strips across the middle to form the belt. Finish with a small square of yellow bell pepper or cheddar as the buckle.
- → Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
Yes, the dip can be mixed and refrigerated until ready to serve. This helps the flavors meld and saves preparation time during your event.
- → What are good alternatives for the black olive strips?
You can substitute black olive strips with thin nori strips or food-safe black tape for a creative look that maintains the belt effect.
- → How should the crackers be stored before serving?
Keep crackers in an airtight container to maintain crispness and assemble with toppings right before serving to avoid sogginess.
- → Is the dip spicy or mild?
The dip is mild but can be given a spicy kick by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper according to your taste preference.