Save A festive, visually stunning charcuterie board featuring a delightful combination of sweet and savory elements arranged in the shape of a holiday tree Perfect for gatherings and celebrations
This board quickly became my go-to for holiday parties since guests love both the taste and festive look
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 100 g brie cheese cut into cubes 100 g sharp white cheddar cubed 100 g herbed goat cheese rolled into balls
- Fruits: 1 cup fresh cranberries 1 cup red grapes halved 1 green apple sliced 1/2 cup dried apricots halved
- Savory Accompaniments: 1/2 cup green olives pitted 1/2 cup marcona almonds or roasted almonds 1/4 cup pepitas or pumpkin seeds
- Sweets: 1/4 cup dark chocolate squares 1/4 cup honey or fig jam
- Crackers & Bread: 1 1/2 cups assorted crackers (gluten-free if needed) 1/2 baguette sliced (optional)
- Garnish: Fresh rosemary sprigs (to mimic pine branches)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large wooden board or platter outline a tree shape using fresh rosemary sprigs as the branches
- Step 2:
- Starting from the base layer rows of crackers and bread slices to form the bottom of the tree
- Step 3:
- Alternate rows of cheeses grapes cranberries and apple slices working your way up the tree shape
- Step 4:
- Add olives almonds and dried apricots throughout filling gaps and adding color contrast
- Step 5:
- Place the goat cheese balls and dark chocolate squares as decorative ornaments
- Step 6:
- Set a small bowl of honey or fig jam near the base or side of the board
- Step 7:
- Garnish with extra rosemary and if desired a star-shaped cracker or cheese slice at the top
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve
Save This board has brought our family together for years especially during holiday celebrations
Notes
Add cured meats such as prosciutto or salami for a non-vegetarian option Serve with chilled white wine sparkling cider or a festive cocktail
Required Tools
Large platter or wooden board Paring knife Small bowls (for jam/honey and loose items) Cheese knives
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese) tree nuts (almonds) and gluten (crackers baguette) For nut allergies omit almonds For gluten-free use gluten-free crackers and bread Always check labels for hidden allergens
Save This recipe is a perfect festive addition that impresses with minimal effort
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make this board gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crackers and bread to keep the board free from gluten while maintaining all flavors and textures.
- → What cheeses are ideal for this arrangement?
Brie cubes, sharp white cheddar, and herbed goat cheese balls create a creamy, flavorful variety that complements the fruits and nuts.
- → Can the board accommodate non-vegetarian preferences?
Yes, adding cured meats such as prosciutto or salami provides savory depth for non-vegetarian guests.
- → How do I create the tree shape?
Outline the shape using fresh rosemary sprigs for branches, then layer rows of crackers, cheeses, fruits, and nuts from base to tip.
- → What are good beverage pairings?
Chilled white wine, sparkling cider, or festive cocktails complement the board’s sweet and savory elements well.
- → Can I substitute ingredients based on seasonality?
Absolutely. Swap in your favorite seasonal cheeses and fresh fruits to tailor the board to available produce and tastes.