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 board has become my go-to for holiday parties, impressing guests with its festive look and delicious 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.
Save to Pinterest This recipe brings my family together every holiday season for a fun and tasty tradition.
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 Cranberry Joy Tree Board is perfect for festive celebrations and is sure to delight guests with its harmonious flavors and beautiful presentation.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I shape the board like a tree?
Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs as branches around the platter. Use rows of crackers and sliced bread for the base, then layer cheeses, fruits, and nuts upward to form a tree silhouette.
- → Can I make this board vegan?
Replace cheeses with plant-based alternatives and ensure crackers and accompaniments are vegan-friendly to adapt it for a vegan diet.
- → What are some good beverage pairings?
Chilled white wine, sparkling cider, or holiday cocktails complement the sweet and savory flavors of this board beautifully.
- → Can the board be prepared in advance?
You can assemble the elements ahead of time and refrigerate, but add fresh rosemary and delicate garnishes just before serving for best presentation.
- → Are gluten-free options available?
Yes, simply choose gluten-free crackers and bread to accommodate gluten sensitivities without compromising flavor.