Save A festive and creative appetizer platter designed to resemble a graduation cap, perfect for celebrating academic achievements with friends and family.
This platter has been a hit at all our graduation parties, bringing a playful and tasty touch to the celebration.
Ingredients
- Platter Base: 1 large square cracker or flatbread approx. 15x15 cm (6x6 in), 1 small round cheese wheel (e.g. Babybel or Brie, about 5 cm / 2 in diameter)
- Garnishes & Details: 8 slices cheddar cheese, 1 red bell pepper, 1 bunch fresh chives, 1/2 cup black olives, 1/2 cup green grapes, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup cubed Gouda cheese, 1/2 cup crackers
- Optional Dips: 1/2 cup hummus, 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Place the cheese wheel in the center of a large serving platter to form the base of the graduation cap.
- Step 2:
- Position the large square cracker or flatbread directly on top of the cheese wheel, aligning the edges to resemble the caps mortarboard.
- Step 3:
- Cut a thin strip from the red bell pepper to create the caps tassel. Place one end in the center of the square cracker, letting the rest drape over the edge.
- Step 4:
- Tie a fresh chive around the base of the pepper strip to mimic the tassel knot.
- Step 5:
- Arrange the cheddar cheese slices, olives, grapes, cherry tomatoes, Gouda cubes, and crackers artistically around the cap to create an inviting appetizer platter.
- Step 6:
- Serve with optional dips in small bowls placed on the side.
Save This platter always brings friends and family together to celebrate special moments with smiles and delicious bites.
Required Tools
Large serving platter, small bowl(s) for dips, sharp knife, small cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese), Wheat (crackers), Possible egg (ranch dressing). May contain gluten; use gluten-free crackers or flatbread if required. Always check dip and cheese labels for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 170, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 13 g, Protein: 7 g per serving
Save This graduation platter adds a festive and tasty highlight to your celebrations with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you create the graduation cap's tassel?
A thin strip of red bell pepper is placed over the cracker square with a fresh chive tied around its base to mimic the tassel knot.
- → Can I adapt this platter for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply substitute the square cracker with gluten-free flatbread to ensure it’s suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → What cheeses work best for this appetizer?
A small round cheese wheel like Babybel or Brie forms the cap base, while cheddar slices and cubed Gouda add variety and texture around it.
- → Are there suggested pairings for this platter?
This colorful platter pairs wonderfully with sparkling cider or a crisp white wine, enhancing celebratory moments.
- → How can I add protein to this vegetarian platter?
For a non-vegetarian twist, rolled slices of prosciutto or salami can be added alongside the cheeses and fruits.