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 board has become my go-to holiday appetizer and always impresses guests with its festive shape and variety
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 is especially fun to assemble with family during the holidays creating lasting memories
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 cranberry joy tree board is a beautiful centerpiece that combines ease with festive cheer
Recipe Questions
- → What cheeses are best for this board?
Brie, sharp white cheddar, and herbed goat cheese offer a variety of textures and flavors that complement the fruits and nuts beautifully.
- → Can I make this board gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free crackers and bread to keep it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → How do you create the tree shape?
Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs to mimic pine branches and layer ingredients from the base upwards to form the tree shape on a wooden board or platter.
- → What sweet elements are included?
Dark chocolate squares and honey or fig jam provide sweet contrasts that balance the savory and tart flavors.
- → Can I add meats to the board?
Yes, adding cured meats like prosciutto or salami works well for a non-vegetarian version.
- → How long can the board be prepared ahead?
Assemble shortly before serving or cover and refrigerate; best enjoyed fresh to maintain texture and appearance.