Pin it A whimsical, kid-friendly snack tower featuring layers of crackers, cheese, and fruit, inspired by the tall elegance of a giraffe. Perfect for parties or playful lunches.
My kids always get excited to help assemble these colorful stacks, and it makes snack time a playful treat.
Ingredients
- Crackers: 20 rectangular whole-grain crackers
- Cheese: 8 slices cheddar cheese, 8 slices Swiss cheese
- Fruit & Vegetables: 1 large cucumber, 1 large carrot, 1 yellow bell pepper, 16 black olives (pitted)
- Extras: 2 tablespoons cream cheese (for assembling), 8 fresh chive stems (for decoration)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and peel the cucumber and carrot. Cut the cucumber into thin, long strips. Cut the carrot into thin matchsticks. Slice the yellow bell pepper into thin strips.
- Step 2:
- Lay out a cracker as the base. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on top.
- Step 3:
- Add a slice of cheddar cheese, a few cucumber strips, and a couple of carrot matchsticks.
- Step 4:
- Top with another cracker, spread a little more cream cheese, and add a slice of Swiss cheese, a few bell pepper strips, and two olive slices.
- Step 5:
- Repeat the layering process until you have a stack of 5 crackers, alternating cheese and vegetables for color and flavor.
- Step 6:
- To mimic the giraffes neck, insert a chive stem along the side of the stack. Use an olive slice at the top as the head and two small carrot pieces as horns (ossicones).
- Step 7:
- Secure the stack with a toothpick if needed. Repeat to make 4 stacks.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately for best texture.
Pin it Gathering around the table to build these stacks together has become a cherished family activity that sparks creativity and laughter.
Notes
Kids can help assemble for a fun activity and serve with a side of hummus or dip for extra flavor.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, vegetable peeler, small spreading knife, toothpicks (optional)
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (cheese, cream cheese), Wheat (crackers). May contain: Gluten (crackers), depending on brand. Double-check all ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Pin it This snack is not only delicious but also sparks joy and creativity in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables work best for the stack layers?
Thin strips of cucumber, carrot matchsticks, and bell pepper slices add fresh crunch and color, perfectly complementing the cheese.
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Try your favorite varieties like mozzarella or gouda to customize flavor while maintaining the layered texture.
- → How do I keep the stack stable?
Using a thin layer of cream cheese between crackers acts as a glue, and securing with a toothpick can help maintain the tower’s shape.
- → Is this snack suitable for kids to assemble?
Yes, the step-by-step layering is simple and fun for kids to help with, making it a great interactive activity.
- → Can the stack be made gluten-free?
Yes, substituting gluten-free crackers maintains the snack's structure and flavor without gluten concerns.