Save 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.
This recipe has become a hit at family gatherings, especially with children who love the playful ladybug design.
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.
Save This is a favorite recipe for quick snacks and special occasions within our family, always evoking smiles and lively conversations.
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). Check all packaging for potential traces of allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (2 bites): Calories 95, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 8 g, Protein 2 g
Save These ladybug bites are a charming and easy-to-make appetizer that bring a touch of whimsy to any gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cheese works best for these bites?
Cream cheese or herbed soft cheese spreads smoothly and balances the flavors well. Alternatives like goat cheese or plant-based soft cheese also work.
- → Can I use different crackers?
Yes, whole-grain or seed crackers add great texture and complement the creamy and juicy ingredients beautifully.
- → How do I make the ladybug spots?
Use black sesame seeds or carefully dot on balsamic glaze with a toothpick to mimic the spots on ladybugs.
- → Are these bites suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely, use gluten-free crackers to keep the bites gluten-free while maintaining the delicious taste.
- → How should these bites be served?
Arrange them on a serving platter and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and vibrant flavors at their best.