Save to Pinterest A festive and eye-catching appetizer featuring a variety of meats, cheeses, fruits, and crackers arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This is my go-to appetizer for Christmas parties since everyone loves the festive look and the tasty combinations.
Ingredients
- Meats: 100 g salami, sliced 100 g prosciutto 100 g smoked ham, sliced
- Cheeses: 120 g cheddar cheese, cubed 120 g gouda cheese, cubed 100 g fresh mozzarella balls 70 g brie, cut into wedges
- Fruits & Vegetables: 1 cup green grapes 1 cup red grapes 1 small cucumber, sliced 1 cup cherry tomatoes ½ cup black olives ½ cup green olives 1 small red bell pepper, sliced (for decoration)
- Crackers & Bread: 100 g assorted crackers (gluten-free if desired) 1 small baguette, sliced
- Garnishes: Fresh rosemary sprigs (for tree branches) Star-shaped cheese slice (cheddar or gouda, for tree topper)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large rectangular serving board, use rosemary sprigs to outline the shape of a Christmas tree.
- Step 2:
- Starting from the bottom, arrange sliced baguette and crackers in a wide row for the tree base.
- Step 3:
- Above the base, layer meats, cheeses, grapes, tomatoes, cucumber, and olives in horizontal rows, tapering as you move upward to form a tree shape. Alternate colors and textures for visual appeal.
- Step 4:
- Place the star-shaped cheese slice at the top as the tree topper.
- Step 5:
- Fill in any gaps with additional rosemary sprigs and red bell pepper strips for decoration.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Save to Pinterest This board always brings my family together during the holidays, sparking conversation and smiles around the table.
Notes
Drizzle with honey or serve with a side of fig jam for added sweetness. Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling cider.
Required Tools
Large rectangular serving board Small knife Cheese cutters or cookie cutters (for star shape) Small bowls (optional, for olives)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (crackers, baguette) meat products present. For gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers and omit baguette. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save to Pinterest This Christmas tree charcuterie board is perfect for festive gatherings and easy to customize for all dietary preferences.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What meats are best for this board?
Salami, prosciutto, and smoked ham offer savory variety and complement the cheeses perfectly.
- → Can this board accommodate gluten-free diets?
Yes, substituting regular crackers with gluten-free options and omitting the baguette ensures it fits gluten-free needs.
- → How do you create the Christmas tree shape?
Use rosemary sprigs to outline the shape on a serving board, then layer ingredients in tapered horizontal rows, widest at the base.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives for this board?
Replacing meats with extra vegetables or marinated tofu maintains fullness while keeping festive flair.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Fresh rosemary sprigs simulate pine branches while red bell pepper strips add vibrant color accents.
- → How should this board be served and stored?
Serve immediately for best freshness or cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.