Sandstone Canyon Hummus Layers (Print)

Creamy hummus with smoky spices layered between crispy beige crackers, evoking sandstone canyon textures.

# Components:

→ 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 (e.g., 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

# Method:

01 - Combine hummus, smoked paprika, olive oil, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper in a bowl until smooth and well blended.
02 - Spread a thin, wavy layer of the hummus mixture on a large serving platter using a spatula to form ridges and valleys resembling a canyon landscape.
03 - Stand crackers upright along the hummus waves, slightly overlapping them to form textured canyon walls.
04 - Alternate spreading hummus and placing crackers in gentle waves to create three to four layers for visual depth.
05 - Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped parsley evenly atop the final layer.
06 - Present immediately with lemon wedges on the side to add a fresh, zesty finish.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It looks wildly impressive but uses pantry staples you probably already have.
  • The crunchy-creamy contrast keeps people reaching for just one more bite.
  • You can make it in the time it takes your guests to find parking.
  • Every scoop reveals new texture as the crackers break into the hummus waves.
02 -
  • Use sturdy crackers or they will snap and collapse into the hummus before anyone gets to enjoy the look.
  • Do not make this more than an hour ahead or the crackers will get soggy and lose their crunch.
  • If the hummus is too thick to spread smoothly, stir in a tablespoon of water or olive oil to loosen it up.
03 -
  • Warm the hummus slightly in the microwave for ten seconds if it is too cold to spread smoothly.
  • Use an offset spatula if you have one, it makes creating the ridges so much easier.
  • Do not overthink the wavy pattern, imperfect swoops look more natural and canyon-like anyway.
Back