Save to Pinterest A whimsical, forest-inspired cheese board featuring owl-shaped crackers, assorted cheeses, fresh fruits, and nuts—a delightful centerpiece for gatherings or themed parties.
I love serving this board at parties because it sparks conversation and satisfies a range of tastes.
Ingredients
- Owl Crackers: 1 1/4 cups (160 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter cold cubed, 1/2 cup (60 g) finely grated sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup (60 ml) cold water, 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for decoration), 12 whole black peppercorns or sliced black olives (for owl eyes)
- Cheeses: 100 g (3.5 oz) Brie sliced, 100 g (3.5 oz) aged Gouda sliced, 100 g (3.5 oz) goat cheese crumbled, 100 g (3.5 oz) blue cheese crumbled
- Fruits & Nuts: 1 small bunch seedless grapes, 1 small apple thinly sliced, 1 small pear thinly sliced, 1/2 cup (60 g) dried apricots, 1/2 cup (60 g) walnuts, 1/2 cup (60 g) roasted almonds
- Garnishes: Fresh rosemary sprigs, Edible flowers (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Owl Crackers:
- a In a bowl whisk together flour salt pepper and thyme.
- b Add cold butter and rub in with fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- c Mix in cheddar cheese.
- d Gradually add cold water mixing to form a soft dough.
- e Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 15 minutes.
- f Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- g Roll the dough to 1/8-inch (3 mm) thickness Cut out owl shapes with a cookie cutter or by hand.
- h Use sesame seeds for feathers and peppercorns or olive slices for eyes.
- i Place the crackers on the baking sheet and bake 12 15 minutes until golden Cool completely.
- Arrange the Cheese Board:
- a On a large wooden board or platter arrange cheese selections in varied sections.
- b Place cooled owl crackers around and among the cheeses.
- c Add fruit slices grapes apricots walnuts and almonds in small piles or clusters.
- d Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and edible flowers for a forest look.
Save to Pinterest This board always brings smiles at family gatherings and is perfect for sharing stories while snacking.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Rolling pin Owl-shaped cookie cutter baking sheet parchment paper cheese knife large serving board or platter
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) milk (dairy) tree nuts (walnuts almonds) May contain traces of sesame Double-check all packaged ingredients for allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 350 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 22 g Protein 12 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest This cheese board is a versatile and charming addition to any party or gathering.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → How are the owl-shaped crackers made?
The crackers are made from a dough of flour, butter, cheddar, and seasonings, rolled thin and cut into owl shapes, then decorated with sesame seeds and peppercorns before baking.
- → What cheeses pair well on the board?
A variety of textures and flavors work best, such as creamy Brie, aged Gouda, tangy goat cheese, and sharp blue cheese.
- → Can the nuts be substituted for allergies?
Yes, seeds like pumpkin seeds can replace nuts to accommodate nut-free preferences without losing crunch.
- → How should fresh fruits be prepared?
Fruits like grapes, apple, and pear should be washed and sliced thinly to enhance presentation and ease of eating.
- → What beverages complement this board?
Crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or light reds like Pinot Noir complement the cheese and cracker flavors well.