Cheese and Crackers Cups are a fun and simple snack! Little bites filled with creamy cheese and crunchy crackers make a perfect party treat or after-school munch. Yum!
They’re fun to make! I love packing them with different cheeses each time. You can never go wrong with melty cheddar or tangy goat cheese. What’s your favorite cheesy combo? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic choice for flavor, but you can switch it up with other hard cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack. They add a nice twist!
Pepperoni: Thinly sliced pepperoni creates those cute little cups. If you want to skip meat, use sliced olives or cooked bacon as alternatives for flavor and texture.
Cream Cheese: This provides a smooth base. If you’re looking for lower fat options, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese.
Fruit Preserves: Apricot or peach jam pairs beautifully, but feel free to use any fruit spread you love. Try raspberry or fig for a different flair!
Crackers: Wheat crackers are great, but you can also use rice crackers or even pita chips for a fun crunch. Choose whatever crunch you like best!
Grapes: The fresh pop of grapes is great, but you could use diced apples or berries instead if you want a different fruit experience.
How Do I Make Perfect Pepperoni Cups?
Creating crispy pepperoni cups is simple, but a couple of key steps can make all the difference! Follow these tips to get those perfect shapes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the pepperoni cooks evenly.
- Arrange the pepperoni in clusters of 3 or 4 on parchment paper; this helps them hold their shape.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them toward the end—it’s easy to overcook! They should be crisp but not burnt.
- Let them cool slightly before lifting them. This helps them firm up and makes it easier to place them in cups.
Taking your time during these steps leads to beautifully formed cups ready to be filled with delicious goodies!
Cheese And Crackers Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cheese Cups:
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite hard cheese)
- 16 pepperoni slices
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp apricot or peach preserves (or any fruit jam)
For Assembly:
- Crackers, thin rectangular type (e.g., wheat crackers), about 24 pieces
- Grapes (red and green), about 24 (approx. 2 grapes per cup)
- Firm cheese cubes (e.g., sharp cheddar or gouda), about 16 small cubes
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty snack takes about 25 minutes in total: about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for baking and assembling. You’ll have these charming, savory bites ready to share in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Pepperoni Cups:
Take the pepperoni slices and place them on the parchment paper in groups of 3 or 4, slightly overlapping them to create small circles. Pop them in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and they’ve formed little cup shapes. Once they look good, take them out and let them cool a bit.
3. Create the Cheese Layer:
While the pepperoni cups cool, mix the softened cream cheese with the apricot or peach preserves in a small bowl. Blend it until smooth and creamy. Using a spoon, place about 1 tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each pepperoni cup.
4. Add the Cheese and Crackers:
Next, sprinkle a small handful (about 2 tablespoons) of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cream cheese layer in each cup. Now, take the crackers and insert about 3 pieces vertically into each cup, making sure they fan out nicely.
5. Finish with Fruits and Cheese Cubes:
To add some freshness, place two grape halves (one red and one green) in front of the crackers in each cup, along with two cheese cubes for a delightful bite. They’ll add color and flavor to your presentation!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, top each cup with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a lovely touch. Serve immediately, or if you’re not eating them right away, you can refrigerate for up to an hour to keep the fruit fresh!
Enjoy these delightful Cheese and Crackers Cups at your gatherings or as a savory snack anytime! They’re sure to please everyone!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a great choice, feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like gouda, havarti, or even a seasoned cream cheese for added flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try using salami, cooked bacon, or even vegetarian options like sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes to create your cups.
Can I Make These Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pepperoni cups and the cream cheese mixture a few hours in advance. Just assemble them right before serving to keep the crackers crispy and the fruit fresh!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the crackers separate to maintain their crunch!
