Autumn Ember Smoked Paprika (Printable)

Smoked paprika cheeses and red-fleshed apples arranged to evoke glowing autumn embers.

# Components:

→ Cheeses

01 - 5.3 oz Manchego cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 5.3 oz aged cheddar, cut into 1-inch cubes

→ Spices & Seasonings

03 - 2 tsp smoked paprika (sweet or hot, as desired)
04 - 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt

→ Fruits

05 - 2 medium red-fleshed apples (such as Hidden Rose or Pink Pearl), cored and cut into wedges

→ Garnish

06 - 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)

→ Accompaniments

07 - Artisan crackers or rustic bread (optional, for serving)

# Directions:

01 - Place the Manchego and aged cheddar cubes evenly in a shallow serving dish or platter.
02 - Sprinkle smoked paprika over the cheese cubes, tossing gently to coat all sides.
03 - Lightly dust the cheeses with flaky sea salt.
04 - Fan out the red-fleshed apple wedges around and between the cheese cubes to mimic glowing embers.
05 - Optionally, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the arrangement for herbal aroma and visual contrast.
06 - Serve immediately alongside artisan crackers or rustic bread, if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in 20 minutes flat, making it perfect when guests are already on their way.
  • The visual presentation gets genuine compliments without a single moment of pretension.
  • Sweet apples and smoky cheese together hit a flavor balance that feels both sophisticated and comforting.
02 -
  • Apples oxidize quickly once cut—if you're prepping more than 15 minutes ahead, that lemon juice trick isn't optional, it's essential.
  • The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, so quality ingredients matter more than technique; buy cheeses you'd actually enjoy eating on their own.
03 -
  • Room-temperature cheese tastes better than cold cheese, so remove it from the fridge 15 minutes before serving if you have time.
  • The smoked paprika is your visual star—don't be shy with it, but do taste as you go to balance heat and flavor to your preference.
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