Pin It Adorable and vibrant, these whimsical snacks combine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy cheese, and briny olives for a fun and healthy appetizer that delights both kids and adults.
I enjoy making these bites for gatherings because they are quick to prepare and always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
- Base: 8 round crackers (gluten-free if needed), 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese or herbed soft cheese
- Ladybug Bodies: 16 cherry tomatoes
- Ladybug Heads & Spots: 8 black olives (pitted, large) halved, 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds or balsamic glaze (for spots)
- Garnish: 16 small fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese onto each cracker.
- Step 2:
- Place a basil leaf onto the cheese on each cracker.
- Step 3:
- Slice each cherry tomato in half lengthwise.
- Step 4:
- Place one tomato half, cut side down, onto each cracker to form the ladybug body.
- Step 5:
- Attach a black olive half to one end of the tomato to create the ladybugs head.
- Step 6:
- Using a toothpick, dot small spots on the tomato backs with balsamic glaze or carefully press on a few black sesame seeds to resemble ladybug spots.
- Step 7:
- Arrange the bites on a serving platter and serve immediately.
Pin It These snacks bring smiles at family get-togethers, making each bite a joyful experience.
Required Tools
Small knife, Spreader or butter knife, Toothpick
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (from cheese), Gluten (from crackers unless gluten-free), Sesame (if using sesame seeds).
Nutritional Information
Calories 95, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 8 g, Protein 2 g per serving (2 bites)
Pin It A delightful and easy-to-make snack perfect for any occasion.
Questions About This Recipe
- → What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Goat cheese, herbed soft cheese, hummus, or plant-based soft cheeses work well as creamy bases.
- → How do I create the ladybug spots?
Use a toothpick to dot balsamic glaze or press a few black sesame seeds onto the tomato halves.
- → Are gluten-free crackers suitable in this dish?
Yes, gluten-free crackers retain the crunchy base without altering the flavor.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prepare toppings separately and assemble shortly before serving.
- → What drinks pair well with these bites?
Chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade complement the fresh and savory flavors nicely.