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.
I love serving these at our holiday gatherings because they always bring smiles and start great conversations.
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:
- Slice into circles slightly smaller than the crackers using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Place cheddar on crackers:
- Put 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 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 This recipe is a hit at family parties and has become a holiday tradition for us.
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
Per serving (3 crackers with dip): Calories 130, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 10 g, Protein 3 g
Save These festive crackers add fun and flavor to any holiday party. Enjoy the smiles they bring!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I create the Santa's belt design on the crackers?
Cut cheddar cheese into small circles slightly smaller than the crackers, place them on top, then add a thin black olive strip across the center to form the belt. Finish by placing a small yellow bell pepper or cheddar square as the belt buckle.
- → Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
Yes, the whipped cream cheese dip mixed with roasted red peppers, chives, and lemon juice can be refrigerated until serving to enhance flavors.
- → Are there alternatives for the black olive strips?
You can substitute with thin strips of nori or food-safe black tape for a different visual effect if preferred.
- → What is the best way to keep crackers crisp?
Assemble the crackers just before serving to maintain their crunch and ensure the toppings stay fresh.
- → How spicy is the dip and can it be adjusted?
The dip is mild but you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce a gentle heat based on taste preferences.