Sandstone Canyon Appetizer Layers (Printable)

Creamy hummus layered with crisp crackers creates a visually stunning, flavorful appetizer.

# What You Need:

→ Hummus Layers

01 - 1 1/8 cups classic hummus (store-bought or homemade)
02 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Crackers

06 - 7 ounces beige crackers (whole wheat, sesame, or water crackers)

→ Garnish

07 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
09 - 1 small lemon, cut into wedges

# How To Make It:

01 - Combine hummus, smoked paprika, olive oil, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper in a bowl; mix until smooth and evenly seasoned.
02 - Spread a thin, wavy layer of hummus on a large serving platter using a spatula to form ridges and valleys resembling a canyon landscape.
03 - Insert crackers upright into the hummus along the wavy contours, overlapping slightly to form textured canyon walls.
04 - Alternate layers of hummus and crackers in gentle waves, repeating 3 to 4 times to enhance visual depth.
05 - Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped parsley over the top layers for texture and color.
06 - Present immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty accompaniment.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It's a stunning centerpiece that takes just 15 minutes, so you can look like you spent hours in the kitchen without the stress.
  • Every layer is edible architecture—it's as fun to build as it is to eat, and guests always ask how you did it.
  • Naturally vegan-friendly and endlessly customizable, so it works for almost any crowd or craving.
02 -
  • If your hummus is too thin, it won't hold the crackers upright—use good quality store-bought or make sure your homemade version is thick enough to stand on its own.
  • Assemble this right before serving; if it sits for more than 30 minutes, the crackers start to soften from the moisture in the hummus, losing that satisfying crunch.
03 -
  • Lightly toast your crackers in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before assembling if they feel soft or stale; they'll regain their snap and hold the hummus better.
  • Use a small offset spatula or butter knife to create your wavy hummus lines—it gives you more control than a larger spatula and makes the ridges cleaner.
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