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 is perfect for quick gatherings and always brings smiles to the table.
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 These bites always make for a joyful family snack time filled with laughter and fun.
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): 95 Calories, 6 g Total Fat, 8 g Carbohydrates, 2 g Protein
Save Enjoy these delightful snacks at your next party or family gathering for a guaranteed hit.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different cheeses for these bites?
Yes, goat cheese or hummus can replace cream cheese to vary the flavor and texture.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the base?
Gluten-free crackers work perfectly and maintain the crunch and structure of the bites.
- → How can I create the ladybug spots?
Use black sesame seeds or carefully dot balsamic glaze on the tomato halves to mimic spots.
- → Is this suitable for vegan diets?
By substituting plant-based soft cheese for cream cheese, these bites become vegan-friendly.
- → What tools are needed to assemble these bites?
A small knife, spreader or butter knife, and toothpick are helpful for preparation and decorating.