Save A festive and creative appetizer platter designed to resemble a graduation cap, perfect for celebrating academic achievements with friends and family.
I recently prepared this platter for a graduation party and it was the highlight of the table's appetizers.
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 family and friends together for celebration and compliments.
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/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 appetizer is perfect for any celebration season and can be customized easily to fit all dietary needs.
Kitchen Guide
- → What ingredients create the cap's base?
A large square cracker or flatbread forms the mortarboard, placed on a small round cheese wheel for support.
- → How is the tassel detail made?
A thin strip of red bell pepper is tied at the base with fresh chives to resemble the tassel knot and hangs over the edge.
- → Can this platter be adapted for dietary preferences?
Yes, it’s vegetarian-friendly with options to add prosciutto or salami for non-vegetarians, and gluten-free crackers can be used.
- → What dips complement this platter?
Hummus and ranch dressing are suggested to accompany the assorted cheeses and fresh garnishes.
- → How should the platter be arranged for best presentation?
Arrange the cheddar slices, olives, grapes, cherry tomatoes, Gouda cubes, and extra crackers artfully around the central cap for a festive display.
- → Are there suggested beverage pairings?
Pair this platter with sparkling cider or a crisp white wine to enhance celebratory moments.