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 enjoy serving this board at family gatherings where everyone loves the playful presentation and variety to snack on throughout the evening.
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 cheese board brings our family together around the table sharing stories and laughter as we enjoy the variety and presentation.
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
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this cheese board fresh with your favorite wines or as a charming snack for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make owl-shaped crackers crispy?
Roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 12–15 minutes until crackers turn golden and firm.
- → What cheeses complement the owl crackers?
Cheeses like Brie, aged Gouda, goat cheese, and blue cheese provide creamy and tangy contrasts that enhance the crackers’ flavor.
- → Can I substitute nuts on the board?
Yes, seeds such as pumpkin seeds make a great nut-free alternative while keeping texture and flavor variety.
- → How can I decorate the owl crackers realistically?
Use sesame seeds to simulate feathers and black peppercorns or sliced black olives for the eyes to add charming details.
- → What beverages pair well with this board?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the assortment of cheeses and the savory crackers beautifully.