Save to Pinterest 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 is my go-to board when hosting holiday parties because everyone loves the mix of fresh fruits and cheeses shaped like a festive tree.
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 to Pinterest This board always brings my family together during the holidays with smiles and good conversations around it.
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 to Pinterest This board is an effortless way to impress guests and celebrate the season with style and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I create the tree shape on the board?
Use fresh rosemary sprigs to outline the tree shape on a large wooden board, then layer rows of crackers and bread at the base. Fill in the shape by alternating cheeses, fruits, and nuts to mimic branches and ornaments.
- → Can I make this board gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular crackers and bread with gluten-free versions to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or presentation.
- → What cheeses work best for this arrangement?
Soft brie, sharp white cheddar, and herbed goat cheese balls offer a pleasing variety of textures and flavors that complement the sweet and savory elements of the board.
- → Are there vegetarian-friendly options included?
The board features a vegetarian-friendly combination of cheeses, fruits, nuts, and crackers; for non-vegetarian variations, cured meats like prosciutto can be added.
- → How should I serve the board at a gathering?
Arrange all ingredients soon before serving to maintain freshness. Serve with small bowls for honey or fig jam and provide cheese knives and plates for easy sharing.