Pin This A whimsical, forest-inspired cheese board featuring owl-shaped crackers, assorted cheeses, fresh fruits, and nuts—a delightful centerpiece for gatherings or themed parties.
This cheese board has become a favorite at my themed parties where guests love spotting owls amongst the cheeses and fruits.
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.
Pin This This cheese board brings my family together, sparking conversations and smiles every time I serve it during our gatherings.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Rolling pin, Owl-shaped cookie cutter (or paring knife), 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)
Pin This Serve at room temperature for best flavor. Enjoy the whimsical presentation and delicious flavors!
Recipe Q&A
- → How are the owl crackers made?
The crackers are crafted from a thyme and cheddar infused dough, rolled thin, cut into owl shapes, decorated with sesame seeds and peppercorns or olives for eyes, then baked until golden.
- → What cheeses complement the board?
This board features a selection of Brie, aged Gouda, crumbled goat cheese, and blue cheese for diverse textures and flavors.
- → Can the nuts be substituted for allergies?
Yes, nuts can be replaced with seeds like pumpkin seeds to accommodate nut-free preferences.
- → What beverages pair well with this board?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the cheeses and crackers.
- → How is the board visually styled?
Cheeses, fruits, and crackers are arranged on a large platter with clusters of nuts, garnished with rosemary sprigs and optional edible flowers for a forest-inspired look.