Charcuterie boards are already a party staple, but adding a holiday twist makes them feel extra special. Whether you’re hosting Christmas Eve, bringing something to a party, or just want a fancy snack situation, here are some ideas to make your board feel festive without overcomplicating things.
The Classic Christmas Colors Board
Build around red, green, and white. Think salami roses, green grapes, white cheddar, brie, red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and green olives. Add some white crackers and you’ve got a board that’s clearly Christmas without being over the top. Pomegranate seeds scattered around add pops of red and a nice texture contrast.
Wreath-Style Arrangement
Arrange your meats, cheeses, and veggies in a circular wreath shape on a round board. Leave the center open for a bowl of dip or jam. Use rosemary sprigs tucked between items to create that evergreen wreath look, and add a bow made from red pepper strips or a cluster of cherry tomatoes at the bottom. It’s playful but still looks polished.
Winter White Board
Go all white and cream for an elegant, snowy effect. White cheddar, brie, goat cheese, mozzarella, white crackers, cauliflower, white grapes, marcona almonds, and white chocolate. Add some silver or clear glass bowls for honey or preserves. This one feels really sophisticated and works great for more formal gatherings.
Candy Cane Lane
Make a candy cane shape on a rectangular board using alternating rows of salami and white cheese, or prosciutto and mozzarella. Fill in the rest of the board with crackers, nuts, and fruits. It’s a fun focal point that’s surprisingly easy to execute. Kids especially love this one.
Gingerbread House Vibes
Include actual gingerbread cookies on your board along with traditional items. Add dried apricots, dates, candied nuts, dark chocolate, crystallized ginger, and warm spices like cinnamon sticks for decoration. Pair with aged cheddar and spiced salami. The sweet and savory combo is really satisfying.
Festive Breakfast Board
Perfect for Christmas morning. Include mini croissants, bagels, cream cheese, smoked salmon, fresh berries, jam, honey, butter, granola, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, and some breakfast meats. Add some orange slices and mint for color. Set out coffee or mimosas and you’ve got a stress-free holiday breakfast.
Cozy Cabin Board
Think rustic and hearty. Aged cheddars, gouda, summer sausage, crackers, pickles, whole grain mustard, dried figs, walnuts, and dark chocolate. Use a wooden board and keep the aesthetic natural. This pairs perfectly with mulled wine or hot cider.
Mediterranean Christmas
Bring some international flair with feta, olives, hummus, pita, grape leaves, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, dried apricots, pistachios, and honey. Add some fresh herbs like oregano and thyme. It’s different from typical holiday food and a nice change of pace.
Dessert Charcuterie
Make it all about sweets. Brownies, cookies, chocolate truffles, candy canes, peppermint bark, fudge, marshmallows, berries for dipping, caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and pretzels. Add some festive sprinkles in small bowls. This is especially great for kids’ parties or as an after-dinner spread.
Building Tips That Help
Start with your cheeses and meats since they’re the anchors. Place small bowls for wet items like olives, jam, or honey so they don’t make everything soggy. Fill gaps with crackers, nuts, and fruits. Use fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme as natural garnish – they look pretty and smell amazing.
Think about heights and textures. Stack some crackers, fold meats, cut cheese into different shapes. The variety makes it more visually interesting. And honestly, a little asymmetry looks more natural and inviting than perfect symmetry.
Make It Easy On Yourself
You don’t need to make everything from scratch. Store-bought items arranged nicely look just as good. Prep what you can ahead of time – cut cheese, wash grapes, portion out nuts. Then assemble everything right before guests arrive so it looks fresh.
Use what you already have for the board itself. A large cutting board, a sheet pan, or even a piece of parchment paper on your counter works perfectly fine.
How Much To Make
A general rule is about 3-4 ounces of cheese and meat per person if it’s an appetizer, more if it’s the main event. But honestly, I always make extra because people tend to graze more than you’d expect, especially during the holidays.
What are your go-to charcuterie items for the holidays? I’m always looking for new combinations to try!