Cream Cheese on Crackers Appetizer Recipe with Boursin and Radishes

To kick off your summer entertaining, I am going to introduce you to this simple cheese and crackers recipe with Boursin cheese and radishes. A friend introduced this recipe to me a few months ago, and I have already made it for several gatherings. This cream cheese on crackers appetizer with radishes is a slightly fancier take on cheese and crackers.

Is Boursin a Cream Cheese?

First things first. Is Boursin really a cream cheese? Well, not entirely. It is a cream-y cheese that also can have a bit of crumble to the texture. In the grand scheme of cheese types, though, I do consider it a type of cream cheese. I find it to have an easy-spread consistency which is why Boursin cheese recipes are perfect for times you need something to come together quickly.

So What Kind of Cheese is Boursin Cheese?

Apparently, Boursin cheese is actually a blend of soft cheese (originally named by the creator as Gournay cheese, a cheese dating back to France in 1957) with special additions/flavorings. In my area, I can only seem to find the Herbs and Garlic (at Walmart and Kroger) and the Fig and Balsamic (at Kroger). Luckily, several of the versions can be ordered online. I can imagine some fabulous Boursin cheese recipes can come from the pepper, shallot and chive, cranberry and spice, and the seasonal parsley and lemon Boursin versions!

But, Radishes?

Believe me. I had the same reaction. I have never been a fan of red radishes – until I tried this simple cream cheese crackers recipe. Just give it a try! The radishes add color to a sometimes colorful cheese and crackers tray while also providing a bit of texture and extra crunch.

Plus, there are many health benefits of radishes.

What Topping or Spice Can I Add to These Cream Cheese Crackers?

My friend who introduced me to this recipe uses dried chives. Here are some pictures of some Boursin cream cheese and crackers with radishes with a dusting of green chives. See how nicely the green pops against the red radishes?

However, on that one weekend at the lake, I forgot to pack my chives. Luckily, the lake house rental came stocked with some basic spices, including red pepper flakes. So radish crackers and cheese with red pepper flakes it was, and they were delicious! By this point, I have made them several times both ways. I can’t pick a favorite. I think cream cheese and crackers need a dusting of something on top to add depth, color, and flavor.

What Type of Crackers Are Best for This Cream Cheese and Crackers Recipe?

Most any of kind of cheese you like is what is best for this recipe! I have used all kinds – Triscuits, Ritz, and various artisan crackers styles. I will say the fancier the cracker, the better the combination seems to be. Or maybe that is all in my head. I do believe round crackers are best because you will slice the radishes into round slices. If you use rectangular or square crackers, the radish slices do not always layer as well.

When to Make this Cream Cheese on Crackers Recipe with Boursin Cheese

This cream cheese on crackers appetizer has taken me through one barbecue with friends and one weekend at the lake with friends, thus far. However, I look forward to making it for any type of potluck style gathering such as baby showers, retirement parties, birthday get togethers, and more!

Take a tray of this cream cheese on crackers recipe, along with one of my other tasty cold (meaning easy serve) recipes:

Dill Pickle Dip

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels

7-Layer Dip

BBQ Dip

Of course, I have a few great hot appetizer recipes, like these cocktail bread appetizers.