Pin 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 recipe has become my go-to for holiday parties because it impresses guests with minimal effort and no cooking required.
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.
Pin This board always brings my family together during the holidays as we share stories and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
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.
Pin This board is as enjoyable to assemble as it is to eat making it a perfect holiday tradition.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I create the tree shape on the board?
Use fresh rosemary sprigs arranged in a triangular pattern to mimic pine branches as a base. Layer crackers and sliced bread at the bottom, then add rows of fruits, cheeses, and nuts building upward to form the tree shape.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses included?
Absolutely. You can swap the brie, sharp cheddar, and herbed goat cheese with other favorites, keeping a mix of creamy, sharp, and tangy textures.
- → Is this arrangement suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes. Use gluten-free crackers and bread to accommodate gluten sensitivities without altering the flavor profile.
- → What drinks pair well with this board?
Chilled white wine, sparkling cider, or festive cocktails complement the sweet and savory flavors nicely.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cover the board tightly and refrigerate. Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and flavor.