There’s something magical about gathering around a table that’s not just filled with food, but joy. Every Christmas, I look forward to creating my Christmas Tree Shaped Charcuterie Board, a show-stopping centerpiece that’s as festive as it is delicious. The first time I made one, I remember my guests gasping before even taking a bite. Between the creamy brie, ruby-red cranberries, and the pop of rosemary sprigs, it looked like Christmas on a platter. If you love a creative way to serve appetizers, this Christmas Charcuterie Board is pure holiday cheer you can eat. For more edible Christmas inspiration, you’ll love the Christmas Tree Focaccia.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas Tree Shaped Charcuterie Board isn’t just food, it’s a conversation starter. You’ll love it because it’s simple to assemble, endlessly customizable, and ideal for parties. Whether you prefer savory meats or sweet accents, it fits all tastes. What makes it even better is that there’s no cooking involved, just artful arranging. It’s perfect for hosts who want maximum impact with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a fun family project where kids can help arrange fruit, nuts, and cheeses into a festive design. For another crowd-pleasing grazing idea, check out this Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board that inspired my Christmas version.
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Christmas Tree Shaped Charcuterie Board
A festive and easy Christmas Tree Shaped Charcuterie Board that doubles as a show-stopping holiday appetizer. Perfect for gatherings and parties.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 large board (serves 8-10)
Ingredients
Brie cheese
Cheddar cheese
Gouda cubes
Salami
Prosciutto
Pepperoni
Green and red grapes
Cranberries
Crackers
Nuts
Rosemary sprigs
Instructions
1. Prepare a large serving board.
2. Cut cheese into cubes or slices.
3. Arrange ingredients in a triangular tree shape.
4. Layer meats and fruits between cheese rows.
5. Use rosemary sprigs as “branches.”
6. Add a star-shaped brie topper.
7. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, skip the meats and add roasted nuts or marinated vegetables.
Pair with red wine, sparkling cider, or a light cocktail.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to craft your tree:
| Category | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Cheese | Brie, Cheddar, Gouda, and Mozzarella balls |
| Meats | Salami, Prosciutto, Pepperoni |
| Fruits | Grapes, Strawberries, Cranberries |
| Extras | Olives, Nuts, Crackers, Fresh Rosemary |
Arrange everything in a triangle shape, forming the tree. Use pretzel sticks or breadsticks as the trunk and small star-shaped cheese cutouts on top for a charming finish. For a perfect pairing, try serving with these Baked Cranberry Brie Bites.
How to Make It
Start by selecting a large wooden board or a marble slab. Arrange your cheese slices and cubes in horizontal rows, alternating with meats. Add fruit between layers for color contrast. Use herbs like rosemary or thyme to mimic pine branches. The goal is balance, both in flavor and visual appeal. Don’t forget texture: pair smooth brie with crunchy nuts or crisp crackers.
If you want to prep ahead, store everything separately and assemble right before guests arrive. This keeps the board vibrant and fresh. For a rich, elegant pairing, I recommend serving it alongside Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken for your holiday meal.
Tips and Variations
- Add a pop of color with pomegranate seeds or dried apricots.
- Create a dessert version using chocolate, cookies, and berries.
- Use cookie cutters to shape cheese or fruit stars.
- For a rustic touch, drizzle with honey and sprinkle crushed pistachios on top.
- If you’re short on time, pre-slice cheese and store meats rolled in advance.
Want to mix sweet and savory? Serve your board with a side of Christmas Crack; its caramel crunch pairs perfectly with salty meats and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How far in advance can I make a Christmas Charcuterie Board?
You can prep ingredients up to 24 hours ahead. Just store them separately and assemble before serving.
2. What cheeses work best for this recipe?
Firm cheeses like cheddar and gouda provide structure, while soft brie adds creaminess and visual contrast.
3. Can I make this board vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip the meats and load up with roasted veggies, hummus, and flavored nuts.
4. How do I keep fruits fresh on the board?
Brush fruits like apples or pears with lemon juice to prevent browning and serve chilled.
For more festive hosting inspiration, you might also enjoy this Christmas Cookie Box for dessert ideas.
Final Piece
A Christmas Tree Shaped Charcuterie Board is the ultimate combination of beauty and flavor. It’s easy, festive, and guaranteed to impress every guest who walks through your door. With just a little creativity, you can turn ordinary ingredients into a holiday masterpiece that captures the warmth and joy of the season. Serve it with a side of mulled wine or hot cocoa, and your Christmas gathering will feel effortlessly special. And when you’re planning your holiday feast, don’t miss the Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin, it pairs perfectly with this elegant appetizer.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
