Graduation Cap Platter

Featured in: Fresh Citrus Plates

This vibrant platter uses a cheese wheel topped with a square cracker to resemble a graduation cap. Red bell pepper and fresh chives replicate the tassel detail. Surround the centerpiece with cheddar slices, olives, grapes, tomatoes, Gouda cubes, and crackers for a visually festive arrangement. Optional dips like hummus and ranch add complementary flavors. Ideal for gatherings, this easy, no-cook dish offers a celebratory look with fresh, vegetarian-friendly ingredients.

Updated on Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:02:00 GMT
An appetizing platter shaped like a graduation cap with colorful garnishes and fresh chives. Save
An appetizing platter shaped like a graduation cap with colorful garnishes and fresh chives. | citrusfold.com

A festive and creative appetizer platter designed to resemble a graduation cap, perfect for celebrating academic achievements with friends and family.

This platter was a hit at my last graduation party it brought everyone together and sparked lots of compliments

Ingredients

  • Platter Base: 1 large square cracker (or flatbread approx 15x15 cm / 6x6 in), 1 small round cheese wheel (eg 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.
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| citrusfold.com

Sharing this platter with family during celebrations creates joyful lasting memories

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

Vibrant and festive Graduation Cap Platter, perfect for a graduation party, bursting with flavors and textures. Save
Vibrant and festive Graduation Cap Platter, perfect for a graduation party, bursting with flavors and textures. | citrusfold.com

This graduation cap platter is both a feast for the eyes and a delightful appetizer for any celebration

Recipe FAQs

What type of cheese works best for the base?

A small round cheese wheel like Babybel or Brie works perfectly as the cap base due to its size and shape.

Can I make this platter gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the large square cracker or flatbread with a gluten-free alternative to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

How do I create the tassel on the platter?

Use a thin strip of red bell pepper tied with a fresh chive around its base to mimic a graduation cap tassel.

Are there any suggestions for additional garnishes?

Additional veggie sticks like carrot, cucumber, or celery can add color and crunch, enhancing the presentation and variety.

What are good beverage pairings for this platter?

Sparkling cider or a crisp white wine complement the fresh ingredients and festive theme well.

Graduation Cap Platter

A colorful platter combining cheese, crackers, and fresh produce styled to mimic a graduation cap.

Prep time
20 minutes
0
Total duration
20 minutes
Provided by Lena Brookfield

Recipe group Fresh Citrus Plates

Skill level Easy

Cuisine type International

Makes 8 Serving count

Diet details Meat-free

Ingredient list

Platter Base

01 1 large square cracker (6x6 in)
02 1 small round cheese wheel (e.g., Babybel or Brie, 2 in diameter)

Garnishes & Details

01 8 slices cheddar cheese
02 1 red bell pepper
03 1 bunch fresh chives
04 1/2 cup black olives
05 1/2 cup green grapes
06 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
07 1/2 cup cubed Gouda cheese
08 1/2 cup crackers

Optional Dips

01 1/2 cup hummus
02 1/2 cup ranch dressing

How to Make It

Step 01

Assemble Platter Base: Place the cheese wheel at the center of a large serving platter.

Step 02

Position Cracker: Place the square cracker atop the cheese wheel, aligning edges to mimic a graduation cap mortarboard.

Step 03

Create Tassel: Cut a thin strip from the red bell pepper and place one end at the center of the cracker, letting the rest hang over the edge.

Step 04

Tie Tassel Knot: Tie a fresh chive around the base of the pepper strip to resemble the tassel knot.

Step 05

Decorate Platter: Arrange cheddar slices, black olives, green grapes, cherry tomatoes, Gouda cubes, and crackers around the cap artistically.

Step 06

Serve with Dips: Present optional hummus and ranch dressing in small bowls alongside the platter.

What You Need

  • Large serving platter
  • Small bowls for dips
  • Sharp knife
  • Small cutting board

Allergy details

Always check ingredients for allergens. When unsure, talk to your healthcare provider.
  • Contains milk (cheese), wheat (crackers), and possible egg (ranch dressing). Use gluten-free options if required.

Nutrition per serving

Provided for informational purposes. Doesn't replace advice from your doctor.
  • Calories count: 170
  • Fat content: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Proteins: 7 g