Forest-themed board with owl-shaped crackers, varied cheeses, fruits, nuts, and fresh herbs for delightful snacking.
# Components:
→ Owl Crackers
01 - 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
04 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
05 - 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
06 - 1/2 cup finely grated sharp cheddar cheese
07 - 1/4 cup cold water
08 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for decoration
09 - 12 whole black peppercorns or sliced black olives for eyes
→ Cheeses
10 - 3.5 oz Brie, sliced
11 - 3.5 oz aged Gouda, sliced
12 - 3.5 oz goat cheese, crumbled
13 - 3.5 oz blue cheese, crumbled
→ Fruits & Nuts
14 - 1 small bunch seedless grapes
15 - 1 small apple, thinly sliced
16 - 1 small pear, thinly sliced
17 - 1/2 cup dried apricots
18 - 1/2 cup walnuts
19 - 1/2 cup roasted almonds
→ Garnishes
20 - Fresh rosemary sprigs
21 - Edible flowers (optional)
# Method:
01 - Whisk flour, salt, pepper, and thyme in a large bowl. Rub in cold butter until mixture forms coarse crumbs. Stir in grated cheddar cheese. Gradually add cold water, mixing to form a soft dough. Wrap in plastic and chill for 15 minutes.
02 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut owl shapes using cookie cutter or knife. Decorate with sesame seeds and peppercorns or olive slices for eyes. Place on lined baking sheet and bake 12 to 15 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
03 - On a large board, place cheese slices in separate sections. Distribute cooled crackers among cheeses. Add fruit slices, grapes, dried apricots, walnuts, and almonds in small clusters. Garnish with fresh rosemary and edible flowers.
