Copper Coil Cheddar Apricots (Printable Version)

An eye-catching appetizer combining sharp cheddar cheese and sweet dried apricots in an elegant spiral.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cheese

01 - 5 oz sharp orange cheddar cheese, thinly sliced

→ Fruit

02 - 3 oz dried apricots, thinly sliced

# How to Make:

01 - On a large serving plate or cheese board, alternate slices of cheddar and apricot from the outer edge forming a continuous spiral toward the center.
02 - Slightly overlap the cheese and apricot slices to create a seamless coil effect.
03 - Continue layering until all slices are used and the spiral is fully formed.
04 - Serve immediately, optionally accompanied by crackers or toasted nuts.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It's the rare appetizer that looks elaborate but requires zero cooking or complicated technique.
  • The contrast between the sharpness of aged cheddar and the honeyed sweetness of apricots creates a flavor memory people actually mention afterward.
  • It transforms humble pantry staples into something guests will photograph and ask about.
02 -
  • Room temperature matters: if your cheese is too cold from the fridge, it becomes brittle and tears; let it sit out for five minutes before slicing.
  • The tighter your spiral, the more visually striking it becomes—don't rush the layering or settle for loose approximations.
03 -
  • Use a cheese plane to create paper-thin slices that ribbon beautifully and prevent the spiral from looking clunky.
  • Chill your serving plate for five minutes before you start arranging—it keeps the cheese from softening as quickly and makes the visual precision easier.
Go Back