When my dessert table starts taking over, I love balancing it with these Cheese Wedge Reindeer Appetizers.
Creamy little cheese wedges get topped with crunchy mini pretzel antlers, tiny peppercorn eyes (or micro bits of black olive), and bright cherry tomato noses.
They’re salty, fresh, and so simple—exactly what a holiday snack board needs.
Yield: 8–16 appetizers (depending on pack size)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- cheese wedges (e.g., Laughing Cow)
- mini pretzels
- black peppercorns or finely chopped black olives for eyes
- cherry tomatoes
Optional for serving
- crackers
- slate board or gray plate
Step-by-Step Instructions
1) Unwrap & place.
Unwrap the cheese wedges and set them pointed-side-out on a slate board or plate.
2) Add antlers.
Gently press two mini pretzels into the rounded top edge of each wedge so they sit like antlers. (The cheese is soft—no glue needed.)
3) Eyes on.
Poke two black peppercorns into the face for eyes. For a milder option, use specks of black olives.
4) Nose.
Halve cherry tomatoes and press a half onto the tip of each wedge as the nose.
5) Serve.
Surround with crackers and enjoy immediately.
Pro Tips
- Gentle pressure: The mini pretzels will stick with a light press—don’t overpush or the wedge can crack.
- Eye alternatives: If whole peppercorns feel too punchy, use sesame seeds or pinhead dots of olive.
- Board smart: Place wedges first, then add antlers so you don’t knock them off while arranging crackers.
- Make-ahead: Assemble everything but the antlers up to 4 hours ahead; cover and chill. Add mini pretzels right before serving to keep them crisp.
Variations
- Caprese nose: Swap tomato for a tiny mozzarella pearl dotted with balsamic.
- Herb coat: Roll sides in minced chives or parsley for a gourmet look.
- Olive-only eyes: Use neat micro rounds of black olives for a softer bite.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Short hold: Assemble up to 4 hours ahead (without pretzels); cover and refrigerate.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container up to 2 days; add fresh pretzels before serving again.
Printable Recipe Card
Cheese Wedge Reindeer Appetizers
Yield: 8–16 | Prep: 10 min | Total: 10 min
Ingredients
Directions
- Unwrap cheese wedges and place on a platter.
- Gently press in mini pretzels for antlers and poke in peppercorns as eyes.
- Add a halved cherry tomato at the tip for the nose; serve with crackers.
Cheese Wedge Reindeer Appetizers
Yield: 8–16 | Prep: 10 min | Total: 10 min
Ingredients- cheese wedges
- mini pretzels
- black peppercorns or black olives
- cherry tomatoes
- Unwrap cheese wedges and place on a platter.
- Gently press in mini pretzels for antlers and poke in peppercorns as eyes.
- Add a halved cherry tomato at the tip for the nose; serve with crackers.
FAQ
Will pretzels get soft in the fridge?
Yes—add the mini pretzels just before serving for maximum crunch.
Can I use different cheese wedges?
Absolutely—any creamy cheese wedges work. Herb- or garlic-flavored wedges are delicious.
Are peppercorns too strong to eat whole?
They’re punchy! Swap for micro bits of black olives or sesame seeds if you prefer a milder bite.
How do I keep them neat on a board?
Place wedges, then eyes and nose, and add antlers last. Carry the board level so the pretzels stay upright.
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