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 always impresses guests during holiday celebrations and is super easy to assemble.
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 recipe brings my family together every holiday as we all dive into the colorful and tasty creation.
Notes
Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free board. Swap in your favorite cheeses or fresh fruits according to season. 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 beautiful board elevates any gathering and is simple to customize for your tastes.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I shape the board like a tree?
Outline a tree shape on your serving surface using fresh rosemary sprigs as branches. Layer ingredients within this shape from base to top to create the festive design.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary needs?
Yes, gluten-free crackers and bread can be used for gluten sensitivity, and almonds can be omitted for nut allergies. Feel free to swap cheeses and fruits seasonally.
- → What pairing beverages complement this board?
Chilled white wine, sparkling cider, or festive cocktails enhance the sweet and savory flavors of the board wonderfully.
- → How to keep the board fresh if prepared in advance?
Cover the arranged board tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve, ensuring ingredients stay fresh and appealing.
- → Can cured meats be added to this selection?
Yes, adding prosciutto or salami can introduce a savory, meaty element for non-vegetarian options.