Cherry Coded Snackable Bites (Print Version)

Sweet and tangy cherry bites with creamy cheese and crunchy crackers. A festive treat for any gathering.

# Components:

→ Cherry Mixture

01 - 1 cup dried tart cherries
02 - 2 tablespoons cherry preserves
03 - 1 tablespoon honey

→ Creamy Layer

04 - 4 oz softened goat cheese
05 - 2 oz softened cream cheese
06 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

→ Crunchy Base

07 - 24 gluten-free crackers or mini rice cakes

→ Garnishes

08 - 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
09 - 1 tablespoon finely diced red bell pepper
10 - Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

# Method:

01 - Combine dried cherries, cherry preserves, and honey in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly and allow to hydrate for 5 minutes.
02 - In a separate bowl, blend goat cheese, cream cheese, and chives until a smooth, spreadable consistency is achieved.
03 - Arrange crackers or rice cakes on a serving platter. Spread a layer of the cheese mixture onto each cracker.
04 - Top each assembled bite with a spoonful of the cherry mixture. Sprinkle generously with chopped pistachios and diced red bell pepper for added texture and visual appeal.
05 - Garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve immediately, or chill briefly before presenting.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 20 minutes
  • No cooking required perfect for last minute entertaining
  • Visually stunning on any grazing board or appetizer spread
  • Customizable for dietary needs including gluten free options
  • Perfect balance of sweet tart and savory flavors
02 -
  • Can be assembled up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerated
  • Each bite contains under 75 calories making them a lighter appetizer option
  • Perfect for color themed holiday gatherings especially Christmas and Valentines Day
  • The combination of textures soft creamy tangy and crunchy creates a complete flavor experience
03 -
  • Always bring cheese to room temperature before blending for the smoothest texture. Cold cheese will leave lumps and be difficult to spread evenly.
  • When choosing crackers, opt for varieties with subtle flavors that won't compete with your toppings. The cracker is a vehicle for the star ingredients, not the main attraction itself.
  • For the most impressive presentation, use a piping bag with a wide tip to apply the cheese mixture. This creates a more professional look and ensures even distribution on each cracker.