Save Adorable and tasty bite-sized snacks inspired by ladybugs, perfect for picnics, parties, or kids gatherings.
This recipe brings joy to any gathering with its fun presentation inspired by ladybugs.
Ingredients
- Base: 12 round whole grain crackers 6 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
- Topping: 12 cherry tomatoes (halved) 12 black olives (pitted, halved lengthwise) 24 small fresh basil leaves
- Decoration: 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or thick balsamic reduction 12 small edible black sesame seeds (optional, for extra detail)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Spread about ½ tablespoon of cream cheese onto each cracker as the base.
- Step 2:
- Place a basil leaf on top of the cream cheese, letting the tip peek out beyond the cracker edge.
- Step 3:
- Position a tomato half, cut side down, on each cracker as the ladybugs body.
- Step 4:
- Add half a black olive at the end of each tomato to form the ladybugs head.
- Step 5:
- Using a toothpick or small piping bag, dot tiny spots of balsamic glaze on the tomato to mimic ladybug spots.
- Step 6:
- Optionally, place a black sesame seed at the front of the olive to create a cute nose.
- Step 7:
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
Save These are best assembled just before serving to keep crackers crisp
Serving Suggestions
Pair with sparkling lemonade or a light rosé for a refreshing picnic.
Required Tools
Small spreading knife Sharp paring knife Toothpick or piping bag
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (crackers) and dairy (cream cheese) May contain sesame (if seeds are used) Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens and cross-contamination.
Save This simple recipe is easy to prepare and a delight for kids and adults alike.
Recipe FAQ
- → What ingredients create the ladybug look?
Halved cherry tomatoes form the body, black olives act as the head, and balsamic glaze dots mimic the spots.
- → Can I make these snacks dairy-free?
Yes, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the base?
Yes, cucumber slices can replace crackers to accommodate gluten-free needs.
- → How should these be served for best texture?
Assemble just before serving to keep crackers crisp and fresh.
- → What tools help in decorating the ladybug spots?
Use a toothpick or small piping bag to dot the balsamic glaze on the tomato halves.