It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! And with it comes a plethora of festive gatherings, parties, and get-togethers with friends and family. But what makes these occasions truly special? The food, of course! Nothing says holiday cheer like a beautifully crafted charcuterie board overflowing with an array of delicious meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 festive Christmas charcuterie board recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic combinations to creative twists, these boards offer something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to add some sparkle to your family’s gathering, these ideas will help you create the perfect spread.
Stay tuned for our first 10 recipes, including a classic Christmas charcuterie board with cranberry mustard and a winter wonderland cheese and meat platter that’s sure to be a hit…
Classic Christmas Charcuterie Board with Cranberry Mustard
This charcuterie board is a festive twist on the classic combination of cured meats, cheeses, and crackers. The addition of homemade cranberry mustard adds a tangy and sweet flavor profile perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of cheddar cheese, sliced
– 1 block of brie cheese, sliced
– 1/4 pound prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1/4 pound salami, thinly sliced
– 1 cup crackers (such as water crackers or wheat thins)
– 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries and honey. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have popped and the mixture has thickened.
2. Stir in Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Arrange cheese, meats, and crackers on a large platter or board.
4. Spoon the cranberry mustard into small bowls or ramekins and place alongside the other ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (cooking time for cranberry mixture only)
Winter Wonderland Cheese and Meat Platter
Gather your friends and family around the table with this delightful winter wonderland cheese and meat platter, featuring a selection of creamy cheeses, cured meats, and sweet accompaniments.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp work well)
– 1/2 cup of Brie cheese, softened
– 4 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 4 slices of salami, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup of fig jam
– 1/2 cup of honey
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cheese and meats on a large platter or board.
2. Drizzle the fig jam and honey over the cheeses and meats.
3. Place the baguette pieces alongside the platter.
4. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required! This platter is ready to serve as is.
Peppermint Chocolate Dessert Charcuterie Board
A sweet and refreshing twist on traditional charcuterie boards, this Peppermint Chocolate Dessert Charcuterie Board is perfect for the holiday season. With its combination of rich chocolate, cool peppermint, and crunchy textures, it’s sure to be a hit at any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup crushed candy canes
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1 package of soft and chewy mint-flavored cookies (such as Oreos)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. In a small bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add the peppermint extract and mix until combined.
3. To assemble the charcuterie board, start with the melted chocolate as the base. Arrange the crushed candy canes, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut on top of the chocolate.
4. Place the soft and chewy mint-flavored cookies on the board, and dollop the whipped cream on top.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)
Rustic Holiday Charcuterie with Spiced Nuts
Gather friends and family around the table with this effortless, yet impressive, charcuterie board. The combination of savory meats, sweet fruits, and crunchy spiced nuts is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of creamy brie cheese
– 1/2 cup of mixed grapes
– 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup of spiced nuts (see below)
– 6 slices of prosciutto di Parma
– 6 slices of salami
– 1 baguette, sliced into thin rounds
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Spiced Nuts:
– 1/2 cup of chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spiced nuts ingredients.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
4. Arrange charcuterie board with cheese, meats, grapes, baguette slices, and spiced nuts.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (for spiced nuts)
Cranberry Brie Christmas Charcuterie Wreath
Create a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday gatherings with this elegant Cranberry Brie Christmas Charcuterie Wreath. A delicious combination of creamy brie, sweet cranberries, and savory meats, perfectly arranged to resemble a festive wreath.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup dried apricots
– 1/4 cup prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup salami, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Arrange the brie cheese in a circular pattern on a large plate or platter to form the base of the wreath.
2. Place the cranberries and chopped pecans around the brie wheel, leaving a small border.
3. Add the dried apricots and thinly sliced prosciutto and salami, arranging them to resemble a festive wreath shape.
4. Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assemble just before serving)
Gingerbread Cookie and Candy Charcuterie Spread
Gingerbread Cookie and Candy Charcuterie Spread is a delightful twist on traditional charcuterie boards, perfect for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges. This sweet spread combines crunchy gingerbread cookies with an assortment of colorful candies and nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gingerbread cookies (crushed)
– Assorted candies (e.g., M&M’s, chopped peanut butter cups, candy canes)
– Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well)
– Confectioners’ sugar
– Fresh greenery (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crush the gingerbread cookies into fine crumbs.
2. In a large bowl, combine the crushed cookies, assorted candies, and chopped nuts.
3. Sprinkle confectioners’ sugar over the top to add a touch of sweetness.
4. Garnish with fresh greenery, if desired, for a pop of color.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! This sweet spread is ready to enjoy as soon as it’s assembled.
Festive Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Board
Elevate your holiday gathering with this elegant and flavorful appetizer. Thin slices of prosciutto wrapped around tender asparagus spears, served with a tangy aioli and toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup Aioli (or store-bought)
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a prosciutto slice, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until prosciutto is crispy and asparagus is tender.
6. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices by baking for 5-7 minutes or grilling for 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve warm prosciutto-wrapped asparagus with toasted baguette slices and a dollop of aioli.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Christmas Tree-Shaped Charcuterie Display
Gather your friends and family around the tree-shaped charcuterie display, a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering. This visually appealing board is easy to create and perfect for serving a variety of meats, cheeses, crackers, and garnishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large wooden cutting board (approximately 12″ x 18″)
– Assorted meats (e.g., prosciutto, salami, ham)
– Cheeses (e.g., cheddar, gouda, brie)
– Crackers and bread
– Fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme)
– Dried fruits (e.g., cranberries, apricots)
– Nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cutting board to resemble a Christmas tree shape.
2. Place the meats at the base of the “tree,” overlapping them slightly for visual interest.
3. Add cheese slices above the meats, creating a layered effect.
4. Scatter crackers and bread around the edges of the board.
5. Use fresh herbs to create a “garland” up the center of the tree.
6. Place dried fruits and nuts along the branches of the tree.
7. Finish with a small bow or decoration at the top of the tree.
Cooking Time: None
Hot Cocoa and Marshmallow Dessert Board
Create a delightful winter wonderland on your table with this easy-to-make Hot Cocoa and Marshmallow Dessert Board. Perfect for a cold-weather gathering or cozy night in, this sweet treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces marshmallows (mini or regular)
– 12-16 assorted sweet treats (e.g., graham crackers, cookies, wafers, pretzels)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Pour the hot cocoa into a large mug or serving pitcher.
5. Arrange the marshmallows on a platter or serving board with the sweet treats.
6. Serve the hot cocoa alongside the marshmallow and treat assortment.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (hot cocoa preparation)
Pomegranate and Goat Cheese Holiday Platter
Pomegranate and Goat Cheese Holiday Platter
A sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for the holiday season. This elegant platter is an impressive addition to any gathering, with its vibrant colors and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and thyme.
4. On a large platter or board, arrange the toasted bread slices in a single layer.
5. Top the bread with crumbled goat cheese, pomegranate seeds, and drizzle with the honey-thyme mixture.
6. Garnish with fresh rosemary leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including toasting the bread)
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Christmas Board
Kick off your holiday gathering with this elegant and delicious Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Christmas Board.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of smoked salmon, thinly sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– Fresh pomegranate seeds and edible flowers for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the sliced baguette on a large serving board or platter.
2. Spread a layer of cream cheese on each baguette slice.
3. Top with a piece of smoked salmon, followed by a sprinkle of chopped dill, red onion, and capers.
4. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cream cheese on top.
5. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and edible flowers, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time only)
Candy Cane-Inspired Sweet and Savory Spread
This festive spread combines the classic flavors of candy canes with savory notes, perfect for snacking or using as a topping for crackers or vegetables. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this sweet and tangy treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 canes)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add the crushed candy canes, honey, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or saltiness as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional crushed candy canes if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation), 30 minutes (chilling time)
Spiced Apple and Cheddar Charcuterie Arrangement
Spiced Apple and Cheddar Charcuterie Arrangement Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the richness of cheddar cheese, perfect for a quick and elegant snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and cinnamon.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the honey-cinnamon mixture over the bread, leaving a 1-inch border around each slice.
5. Top each bread slice with an apple slice, followed by a cube of cheddar cheese.
6. Sprinkle salt to taste and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog and Gingerbread Dessert Charcuterie
Warm up with a sweet and savory dessert charcuterie board that combines the flavors of eggnog and gingerbread. This festive treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup eggnog
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package gingerbread cookies (about 20-25 cookies)
– Fresh cranberries and whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggnog, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
2. Arrange the gingerbread cookies on a serving board or platter.
3. Drizzle the eggnog mixture over the cookies in a zig-zag pattern.
4. Garnish with fresh cranberries and whipped cream as desired.
Cooking Time: None! This charcuterie is ready to serve immediately.
Festive Antipasto Skewers Charcuterie Board
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday gatherings with this colorful and delicious charcuterie board featuring antipasto skewers. Perfect for parties, buffets, or simple entertaining.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup assorted cured meats (e.g., prosciutto, salami, ham)
– 1 cup mixed cheese cubes (e.g., cheddar, gouda, mozzarella)
– 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thread a meat slice, cheese cube, artichoke heart, and cherry tomato onto each skewer.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
4. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Peppered Beef and Blue Cheese Holiday Platter
Elevate your holiday gathering with this savory and elegant appetizer platter, featuring tender peppered beef and pungent blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) beef tenderloin
– 2 tbsp peppercorns, freshly ground
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together peppercorns, olive oil, garlic, and salt.
3. Rub the mixture all over the beef tenderloin, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the beef on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Let the beef rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
6. Arrange the sliced beef on a serving platter with crumbled blue cheese and fresh thyme leaves.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Chocolate and Cranberry Dessert Board
Gather your favorite winter treats and create a visually stunning dessert board featuring white chocolate, tart cranberries, and crunchy textures. This sweet and tangy combination is sure to impress your holiday guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Edible flowers or greenery (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Arrange the cranberries and chopped nuts on a large platter or board.
3. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the fruit and nuts in a zig-zag pattern.
4. Top with sliced dried apricots and a drizzle of honey.
5. Garnish with edible flowers or greenery, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Mini Caprese Christmas Wreath Charcuterie
Create a festive and flavorful holiday appetizer with this adorable mini caprese wreath charcuterie. Perfect for parties or gatherings, it’s an easy and impressive way to bring people together.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Wooden skewers or toothpicks
– Assorted meats and cheeses for accompaniment (e.g. prosciutto, salami, gouda)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Alternate cherry tomatoes and mozzarella slices on each skewer or toothpick.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese and tomatoes.
4. Sprinkle balsamic glaze and chopped basil (if using) evenly among the skewers.
5. Arrange the mini caprese wreaths on a platter or board, leaving space between each one.
6. Serve with assorted meats and cheeses for guests to assemble their own bites.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an appetizer-style recipe.
Rosemary and Honey Glazed Charcuterie Spread
Rosemary and Honey Glazed Charcuterie Spread: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Classic Charcuterie
Elevate your charcuterie game with this aromatic and flavorful spread, perfect for parties or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (8 oz) log of goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup sliced prosciutto or serrano ham
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, rosemary leaves, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the mixture evenly over the crumbled goat cheese.
4. Top with sliced prosciutto or serrano ham.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is warm and the glaze is caramelized.
6. Serve warm with crackers, crostini, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Snowman-Themed Cheese and Crackers Board
Gather your friends and family around the table with this adorable snowman-themed cheese and crackers board perfect for a cozy winter gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of white cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
– 1 box of assorted crackers (e.g., wheat thins, club crackers)
– 1/2 cup of red grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup of green apple slices
– 1/4 cup of pretzel rods, broken into pieces
– Edible snowman decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cheese cubes on a platter or board to resemble a snowman’s body.
2. Place the crackers around the cheese to create a “carrot nose” and “coal eyes.”
3. Add the red grapes for the “scarf” and green apple slices for the “hat.”
4. Scatter the pretzel rods around the board to look like snowflakes.
5. If desired, add edible snowman decorations (e.g., fondant or gumdrop details) to complete the snowman’s features.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Assembly time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 festive Christmas charcuterie board recipes! From classic combinations to creative twists, these boards are sure to impress your guests. Try pairing peppermint chocolate with crudités and crackers, or go rustic with spiced nuts and dried fruits. For a sweet treat, create a hot cocoa and marshmallow dessert board or a white chocolate and cranberry spread. And don’t forget the savory options, like prosciutto-wrapped asparagus or smoked salmon and cream cheese. Whatever your taste, there’s a charcuterie board recipe here to make your holiday season merry and bright.
