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.
I first served this to my family and it was an instant hit, making snack time joyful and colorful.
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 good 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 Making these snacks brought my family together around the table, sharing smiles and creativity.
Notes
Pairs well with chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade; for vegan bites, choose a plant-based soft cheese.
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.
Save 
This fresh and colorful recipe is perfect for any occasion and adds a playful touch to your snack time.
Common Questions
- → What type of cheese works best for these bites?
Cream cheese or herbed soft cheeses provide a smooth and tangy base, complementing the fresh tomato and olive flavors nicely.
- → Can these bites be made vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute the cheese with a plant-based soft cheese to maintain creaminess while keeping the snack vegan.
- → What is the purpose of basil in this snack?
Fresh basil adds a fragrant herbal note that brightens the overall flavor and enhances the presentation.
- → How can I create the ladybug spots?
Use balsamic glaze or black sesame seeds to dot the tomato halves, mimicking the spots on a ladybug’s body.
- → Are there gluten-free options available?
Yes, using gluten-free crackers ensures the snack is suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals without compromising texture.