Save A sophisticated appetizer featuring a variety of artisanal crackers, paired with gourmet preserves and accompaniments, perfect for entertaining or elevating a cheese board.
This cracker and preserve tower has become my go-to party starter, impressing guests with its elegant presentation and simplicity.
Ingredients
- Crackers: 100 g (3.5 oz) multigrain crackers, 100 g (3.5 oz) seeded whole wheat crackers, 100 g (3.5 oz) classic water crackers, 100 g (3.5 oz) rosemary olive oil crisps
- Preserves & Spreads: 100 g (3.5 oz) fig jam, 100 g (3.5 oz) red onion marmalade, 100 g (3.5 oz) apricot preserves, 100 g (3.5 oz) quince paste
- Cheeses (optional, for pairing): 120 g (4 oz) aged cheddar sliced, 120 g (4 oz) creamy brie sliced, 120 g (4 oz) blue cheese crumbled
- Fruits & Nuts: 1 cup seedless red grapes, 1 firm pear sliced, ½ cup toasted walnuts, ½ cup dried apricots
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Arrange the assorted crackers in vertical stacks or a cascading tower on a large serving platter or wooden board.
- Step 2:
- Spoon each preserve or jam into small ramekins or bowls, and place them around the cracker tower.
- Step 3:
- Arrange cheese slices or wedges near the preserves for easy pairing (if using).
- Step 4:
- Garnish the board with grapes, pear slices, walnuts, and dried apricots for color and texture.
- Step 5:
- Serve immediately, providing cheese knives and small spreaders for easy access.
Save This appetizer always brings my family together for pre-dinner chats and laughter around the table.
Notes
Add cured meats for a charcuterie variation substitute nuts or fruits based on seasonality or allergies
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter small bowls or ramekins cheese knives and spreaders
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (crackers) dairy (cheese) and tree nuts (walnuts) Preserves may contain traces of nuts or other allergens always check labels if unsure
Save Enjoy creating this stunning appetizer that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Recipe FAQs
- → What types of crackers work best for this tower?
Multigrain, seeded whole wheat, classic water crackers, and rosemary olive oil crisps provide a range of textures and flavors that complement preserves well.
- → Can I include cheese with the cracker and preserve arrangement?
Yes, adding cheeses like aged cheddar, creamy brie, or blue cheese enhances pairing possibilities and adds richness.
- → How should I serve the preserves alongside the crackers?
Place each preserve in small bowls or ramekins around the cracker tower for easy access and attractive presentation.
- → What fruits and nuts pair well with this selection?
Seedless grapes, sliced pear, toasted walnuts, and dried apricots provide contrasting textures and natural sweetness.
- → Are there variations for dietary restrictions?
For gluten-free options, substitute with gluten-free crackers. Adjust fruits or nuts based on allergies or seasonality.