CLASSIC CHEESE AND APPLE CRACKERS
The classic cheese and apple crackers recipe is a perfect combination of savoury and sweet flavours, making it a delicious and balanced snack. The rich, creamy texture of cheddar cheese pairs wonderfully with the crisp, nutty crunch of whole-grain crackers, while the natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh apple slices bring everything together. Whether you’re looking for a quick midday snack, a light appetiser, or a nutritious addition to a packed lunch, this dish is a great option. One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity—requiring just three ingredients and no cooking, it’s ready in minutes. It’s also incredibly versatile. You can swap the cheddar for different cheeses, use other types of fruit, or even add toppings like honey, nuts, or seeds for extra texture and flavour. This snack is not only delicious but also packed with protein, fibre and essential nutrients, making it a smart and satisfying choice.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Snack, Appetiser, Hors D’Oeuvres
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
British, European
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, 5 Ingredients or Less, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Picnic, Potluck, Family Reunion, Party, Cocktail Party, Afternoon Tea
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Fibre, Kid-Friendly, Low Cholesterol, Vegetarian, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Appetiser, Snack
INGREDIENTS
Here are the ingredients we used to prepare Classic Cheese And Apple Crackers:
- 30g cheddar cheese, sliced
- 4 whole grain crackers
- 1/4 apple, sliced
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 180-200 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fats: 8g
- Fibre: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Calcium: 15% of daily intake
PREPARATION
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the cheddar cheese into thin pieces for easy layering. Wash and slice the apple into even wedges, ensuring they are not too thick to keep the balance of flavours.
- Arrange Crackers: Lay out the whole-grain crackers on a serving plate, making sure there is enough space between them for easy grabbing.
- Layer The Cheese: Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each cracker. Adjust the size if necessary so that it fits neatly on top.
- Add Apple Slices: Place an apple slice over the cheese, making sure to slightly overlap it for an attractive presentation and even distribution of flavours.
- Final Touch: Arrange everything aesthetically on a plate or wooden board for a stylish serving. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
None (No-Cook)
TIPS
- Cheese Selection: Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavour or mild cheddar for a creamier taste. Aged cheddar adds a stronger umami flavour, while white cheddar offers a smoother, more refined taste.
- Cracker Choice: Whole-grain crackers provide more fibre and nutrients, but you can also use seeded crackers for an added crunch. If you prefer a lighter option, opt for rice crackers.
- Apple Pairing: Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the richness of the cheese, while sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji add a milder, dessert-like contrast.
- Serving Suggestion: Arrange everything on a wooden board along with nuts, dried fruits or a small dish of honey, thus elevating the snack into a beautiful appetiser.
- Storage Tip: If preparing in advance, lightly brush the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent them from browning.
VARIATIONS
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans or almonds over the cheese for extra crunch and a dose of healthy fats.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the apple slices enhances the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy spice, sprinkle black pepper or chilli flakes over the cheese before serving.
- Alternative Cheese: Swap out the cheddar for gouda, brie, blue cheese or even smoked cheese to introduce new flavour profiles.
- Fruit Substitution: Replace apples with pears, grapes or figs for a different yet equally delicious combination.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store pre-sliced cheese and apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep the crackers separate to maintain their crispness.
- Meal Prep Tip: If preparing for a gathering, assemble just before serving to keep all elements fresh. For packed lunches, wrap cheese and apple slices separately and combine when ready to eat.
- Freezing: This is not recommended, as cheese and apples do not freeze well, and crackers will become soft when thawed.