Save to Pins 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 a go-to for my family holiday parties and always sparks great conversations and compliments.
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 Pins This board always brings my family together and our holiday memories get sweeter with each gathering.
Notes
Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free board Swap in your favorite cheeses or fresh fruits according to season 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 or 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 Pins This Cranberry Joy Tree Board makes holiday entertaining effortless and memorable for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I assemble the tree board?
Start by creating a tree outline using rosemary sprigs. Layer crackers at the base, then alternate cheeses, fruits, and nuts upward to form the tree shape.
- → Can I make this board gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free crackers and bread to keep the board gluten-free and enjoy the same delightful flavors.
- → What are good beverage pairings?
Chilled white wine, sparkling cider, or festive cocktails complement the sweet and savory notes perfectly.
- → Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely, swap cheeses or fruits depending on season or preference. Adding cured meats can accommodate non-vegetarian choices.
- → How to keep the board fresh before serving?
Cover and refrigerate the assembled board if not serving immediately, ensuring all elements retain freshness and texture.