Save 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.
I love making these tall giraffe cracker stacks with my kids because assembling the layers becomes a playful activity that keeps them engaged and excited to eat their veggies.
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.
Save Making these cracker stacks always brings the family together, especially when everyone customizes their own giraffe snack creation for lunch.
Notes
Use any favorite cheese or vegetables for variety. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers. Kids can help assemble for a fun activity. 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.
Save This playful snack is perfect for any occasion and makes healthy eating fun and creative.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What types of cheese work best in this snack stack?
Cheddar and Swiss cheeses provide a good balance of sharp and mild flavors, but you can substitute with any preferred cheese that slices well.
- → Can I customize the vegetables used in the layers?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite sliced vegetables or seasonal produce to suit your taste and add color.
- → Is there a gluten-free alternative for the crackers?
Yes, gluten-free crackers can be used without affecting the texture or overall enjoyment of the snack.
- → How do I assemble the giraffe neck decoration?
Insert a fresh chive stem along the side of the stack to mimic the neck, then top with an olive slice and small carrot pieces resembling horns.
- → Can children help prepare these snack stacks?
Definitely! The assembly process is simple and playful, making it a fun activity for kids to join in the kitchen.
- → What dips pair well with this snack stack?
A side of hummus or your favorite vegetable dip complements the flavors and adds an extra layer of enjoyment.