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Deck the table with a festive Wreath Holiday Charcuterie Board that’s as stunning as it is simple to assemble! This holiday spread, filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, and holiday touches, will be a showstopper at any gathering—perfect for a cozy evening or a big family feast!
Bring a little holiday magic to your table with a Christmas charcuterie board that’s as stunning as it is stress-free! With simple ingredients and a few festive touches, you can pull together a showstopper spread that looks like you spent hours—but really, it comes together in no time. I’ll walk you through each step, from picking easy-to-find ingredients to adding your own creative flair so that every board feels perfectly “you.”
I’ve got you covered with flexible ingredient ideas, easy-to-follow layout tips, and tricks to keep everything fresh and inviting all night. You’ll find fun flavor pairings, simple ways to add that extra holiday sparkle, and ways to create a board that’s both beautiful and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned host or giving this a go for the first time, this guide is here to help you create a holiday centerpiece that brings warmth, beauty, and a bit of festive cheer to your gathering!
Alternative Holiday Charcuterie Board Ingredients Ideas
Meats to Use on a Charcuterie Board
- Prosciutto – Thin and slightly sweet, it pairs beautifully with fruit.
- Pepperoni – Adds a bit of spice for those who enjoy a bolder flavor.
- Smoked Turkey or Chicken – A leaner option that still offers plenty of flavor.
- Chorizo – For a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
- Smoked Sausages – Bite-sized smoked sausage pieces bring a hearty, savory element that complements cheeses and spreads well.
- Steak: Thinly sliced or shaved Ribeye, FIlet, or your favorite seasoned steak.
Charcuterie Cheese Choices
- Gouda Cubes – A mild, creamy option.
- Havarti – Buttery and smooth, it complements both savory and sweet items.
- Goat Cheese – Crumble it for a tangy contrast that pairs well with fruit.
- Sharp White Cheddar – Aged cheddar adds a rich, slightly nutty flavor.
- Softer Sharp Cheeses– like bleu cheese, Gorgonzola, Roquefort, Stilton, or Cambozola.
Fruit Options
- Red Grapes – Perfect if you want more color variation.
- Pomegranate Arils – Adds a festive red color and a burst of juicy flavor.
- Dried Apricots or Cranberries – For a chewy, sweet element.
- Sugared Cranberries – Sparkling and sweet-tart, they add a festive pop and look beautiful on the board.
- Apple or Pear Slices – Fresh and crisp, they’re perfect with cheese. You can even use dried fruits.
Additional Garnishes
- Rosemary Sprigs – Adds a pine-like aroma and mimics mini Christmas tree branches.
- Candied Pecans or Walnuts – For a sweet, nutty crunch that feels indulgent.
- Honey-Roasted Nuts – Sweet and crunchy, they’re a lovely addition to both savory and sweet bites.
- Edible Flowers – Such as pansies or nasturtiums, for a unique, elegant touch.
- Honeycomb – For a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with Brie and blue cheeses.
Alternative Crackers & Breads
- Mini Breadsticks – For a fun twist on texture and shape.
- Crostini – Small toasted bread slices that add a hearty base for stacking.
- Gluten-Free Crackers – For a board that’s friendly for all dietary needs.
- Pita Chips or Pretzel Crisps – A flavorful, crunchy option that’s fun for dipping!
Jams & Spreads
- Fig Jam, Apricot Preserves, Cranberry Chutney – These sweet spreads are lovely with cheeses and add holiday flair—place in small jars, decorative bowls, or ramekins around the board for easy serving.
Sweets to Try
- Dark Chocolate Squares or Chunks – Rich, slightly bitter chocolate pairs beautifully with cheese and fruit.
- Chocolate-Covered Almonds or Pretzels – These bring a sweet-salty crunch that’s perfect for snacking.
- Peppermint Bark – Adds a holiday touch with festive flavors of peppermint and chocolate.
- Mini Gingerbread Cookies – Cute and seasonal, gingerbread pairs well with cheeses and fruits.
- Shortbread or Biscotti – Ideal for dipping into jams, spreads, or even hot cocoa if served alongside!
- Caramel Candies or Caramel Sauce – A drizzle of caramel over Brie or apple slices creates a deliciously decadent bite.
- Marshmallows – For a wintery feel, mini marshmallows or even peppermint marshmallows add a cozy touch.
- Dried Figs or Dates – Naturally sweet and chewy, they pair wonderfully with cheeses and nuts.
- Candied Orange Slices – Bright and zesty, these add a pop of color and a burst of citrus flavor.
- Chocolate Truffles or Bonbons – Luxurious, bite-sized chocolates that feel indulgent and festive.
- Red and Green Holiday M&M’s or Chocolate-Covered Cherries – Fun and colorful, they add a festive touch to the board.
- Sugar Cookies with Holiday Sprinkles – A kid-friendly option that’s cheerful and adds a homemade touch.
How To Make a Holiday Charcuterie Board
✱ Be sure to see the recipe card below for exact ingredients and full recipe instructions!
- Prepare the Brie: Unwrap and slice the Brie in half. Cut one half into triangles and use a small cookie cutter to make stars from the other half. These cute stars add a whimsical holiday touch.
- Fold the Ham: Fold each slice of ham in half, then fold it accordion-style. Stack two folded pieces on a toothpick. Repeat with all ham slices.
- Make Salami “Roses”: Fold one piece of salami in half, then roll it up. Wrap two more pieces around it to form a “flower.” Continue with the remaining salami.
- Create the Wreath Base: Lay fresh dill on a large round platter in a wreath shape, forming a large circle with a smaller one inside to mimic the look of a wreath.
- Arrange the Fruits and Meats: Place the berries and grapes on top of the dill, alternating colors and types. Then, add the folded ham and salami roses in clusters to add variety.
- Add Cheeses: Place the cheese cubes, Brie triangles, and stars around the wreath. The Brie stars add a festive flair, while the cheese cubes add color and texture.
- Finish with Olives and Oranges: Nestle olives and Cutie orange segments into any open spaces to add vibrant color.
- Garnish with Sage: Tuck in fresh sage sprigs around the wreath to add extra greenery and a subtle earthy fragrance.
- Add Crackers: Finally, arrange crackers around the edge of the wreath, completing the board. The crackers are easy to grab and serve as the perfect complement to the meats and cheeses.
How Much Food Should I Plan Per Person?
For a snack board, plan on about 2 ounces of cheese and 2-3 ounces of meat per person. If the charcuterie board is the main event, increase the quantity to 4-5 ounces of cheese and meat per person, along with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and breads.
What Can I Use as a Base for My Charcuterie Board?
When it comes to picking the perfect base for your charcuterie board, you have plenty of options to make it both functional and visually appealing:
Traditional Wooden Boards:
Large wooden boards are a classic choice. The natural wood grain gives a warm, rustic feel that’s perfect for cozy gatherings. Opt for a rectangular, round, or even an oversized cutting board if you have one—just make sure it’s big enough to give each item room to shine. Bamboo and acacia wood boards are especially durable and make beautiful backdrops for meats, cheeses, and fruits.
Marble or Slate Slabs:
For a more refined, elegant look, marble or slate slabs are wonderful choices. Marble’s cool surface is great for maintaining cheese at a nice temperature. The dark color of the slate provides a striking contrast. It makes bright fruits and herbs pop. Many slate boards also let you write on them with chalk. You can label cheeses or other items directly on the board. It adds a fun touch for guests!
Lazy Susan:
A rotating Lazy Susan is perfect for larger gatherings. It makes everything accessible without people reaching across the table. Guests can spin it to grab their favorite bites. The layout stays intact. This makes it easy to enjoy from any angle.
Ceramic Platters or Serving Trays:
If you have a large ceramic or porcelain platter, use it as a base! These are typically wider and often come in festive or decorative designs, adding a special touch to your setup. Here, I used a large round gold metal tray that is perfect for the wreath shape (I also have the tray in black)!
Personal Mini Boards:
For an intimate touch, create individual boards or plates for each guest. Small wooden boards, ceramic plates, or even Bento boxes work well for this. You can go with disposable boxes with clear lids, charcuterie cups (they are adorable), or use clear cups or even glasses you have on hand. Each person gets a mini assortment, and it’s especially thoughtful for gatherings where sharing isn’t ideal. It also lets you customize each board with specific dietary preferences in mind.
Craft Paper Spread:
For a casual gathering, you can skip an actual board. Use a sheet of craft or butcher paper or parchment paper as your “board” on the table. Arrange everything directly on the paper for a laid-back, picnic-style spread that’s both unique and easy to clean up.
Tiered Stands or Cake Stands:
If you’re working with limited table space, think about using tiered stands or cake stands. These can create a multi-level charcuterie display. This adds height and dimension. You can arrange different items on each level. It can make for a striking centerpiece.
When choosing your base, keep in mind the theme or tone of your event—wood for rustic charm, marble for elegance, and trays for practicality. Whatever you choose, the most important part is making it inviting and enjoyable for everyone gathered around!
Buying Tips for Charcuterie Boards
Shop Seasonal Produce: Choose fruits and garnishes that are in season for better prices and fresher flavors. Winter favorites like pomegranates, citrus fruits, and cranberries not only look festive but are cost-effective.
Visit Bulk Stores: Places like Costco or Sam’s Club often have great deals on cheese, nuts, and crackers, allowing you to buy in bulk and save on high-quality ingredients. Aldi isn’t a bulk store, but they have amazing prices and selections for charcuterie.
Mix High and Low-Price Items: Balance premium items like specialty cheeses with more affordable options such as cheddar or salami. This approach helps keep costs down while maintaining a variety of flavors.
Use Store Brands: Don’t shy away from store-brand versions of items like nuts, dried fruit, or crackers—they’re often just as good as name brands and friendlier on your budget.
Buy Pre-Sliced or Pre-Portioned Items: To save time, look for pre-sliced meats and cheeses. This makes setup faster and less stressful when assembling the board.
Look for Sales and Discounts: Keep an eye out for holiday promotions or sales at grocery stores and specialty markets. Cheese, meats, and crackers frequently go on sale around the holiday season.
Select a Variety of Textures and Flavors: When shopping, think about including a mix of soft, semi-soft, and hard cheeses, as well as salty, sweet, and tangy accompaniments like pickles, jams, and honey.
Frequently Asked Questions about Serving Charcuterie Boards
Start by arranging items in a mix of shapes and colors for that eye-catching appeal. Place the larger items first—think cheeses or small bowls of jam—to anchor the board. Then, fill in the gaps with smaller ingredients like berries, nuts, and crackers to add layers of texture and flavor. For a festive touch, tuck in some fresh herbs, a few edible flowers, or even candied fruits. Little details like these go a long way in making the board feel special and inviting. Relax, enjoy the process, and make it your own!
Most items can sit out for around 2 hours safely. After that, especially with perishable items like meats and cheeses, it’s best to refrigerate or replace them.
Not necessarily! You can customize your board to dietary preferences. A vegan board might feature plant-based cheeses, roasted veggies, nuts, and fresh and dried fruits, while a cheese-only board works well with a variety of textures and flavors. These days, anything goes, and often, you are adapting for your guests, and whether the board is being served as an appetizer or a meal.
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Christmas Charcuterie Board Theme Ideas
Red & Green Christmas Board
- Theme: Red and green holiday colors
- Look: Focus on red and green foods—use red grapes, cherry tomatoes, raspberries, strawberries, green grapes, olives, and sliced cucumbers. Pair with festive cheeses like cheddar and green pesto gouda or marble cheese.
- Special Touches: Add cranberries and fresh mint leaves or basil for extra holiday colors and aroma.
Santa’s Dessert Charcuterie Board
- Theme: Sweet treats for Santa
- Look: Fill this board with a variety of red, white, and green sweets, like Christmas cookies, peppermint bark, chocolate-covered pretzels, holiday M&M’s, and mini candy canes. Add a few savory bites for balance, like cubes of Brie and cheddar, or spiced nuts.
- Special Touches: Mini gingerbread cookies, marshmallow snowmen, and red-and-green sprinkle-topped treats.
Winter Wonderland Board
- Theme: Snowy, winter-inspired board
- Look: Keep the colors cool with white and blue foods, like white cheddar cubes, Brie, blue cheese, blueberries, white chocolate pretzels, and frosted grapes. This theme is both elegant and festive!
- Special Touches: Use coconut flakes or powdered sugar dusted over grapes and nuts for a “snowy” effect, and add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for an evergreen touch.
The Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board
- Theme: Charcuterie shaped like a Christmas tree
- Look: Arrange ingredients in a triangle to form a Christmas tree shape. Start with a base layer of crackers or salami, add layers of cheeses, green olives, and fruits, and top with a small star cut out of cheese or fruit.
- Special Touches: Use sliced cucumbers or green peppers as a “garland” effect, and place cranberry or raspberry “ornaments” along the tree shape.
Hot Cocoa Charcuterie Board
- Theme: Cozy hot chocolate station
- Look: Include hot chocolate essentials like marshmallows, whipped cream, peppermint sticks, mini chocolate chips, toffee bits, and a variety of cookies. For a savory balance, add cubes of Gouda or Swiss and pretzel rods.
- Special Touches: Mini mugs of cocoa or an assortment of flavored hot chocolate mixes with labels, cinnamon sticks, and chocolate shavings.
Holiday Brunch Charcuterie Board
- Theme: Morning charcuterie for Christmas breakfast
- Look: Feature breakfast items like mini pancakes, waffles, berries, cream cheese, smoked salmon, bagels, fruit spreads, and a selection of meats and cheeses.
- Special Touches: Include mini jars of jam, fresh fruit skewers, maple syrup drizzle, and holiday-themed cookies.
- Serve along with your favorite breakfast foods– like overnight breakfast casserole, southern grits casserole, chipped beef gravy, or sausage gravy & biscuits
Nutcracker Christmas Board
- Theme: Inspired by “The Nutcracker” ballet
- Look: Use elegant, refined foods like blue cheese, smoked meats, figs, walnuts, and dark chocolate. Decorate with nutcracker figurines or ornaments to bring the theme to life.
- Special Touches: Add sugared cranberries, dried apricots, and mixed nuts for a festive touch.
Festive Italian Christmas Board
- Theme: Italian-inspired holiday board
- Look: Highlight Italian ingredients like prosciutto, salami, mozzarella, olives, roasted red peppers, pesto, and bruschetta toppings. Include Italian breadsticks and mini slices of focaccia.
- Special Touches: Drizzle olive oil, add fresh basil, and use marinated artichokes and sundried tomatoes to create a rich, Italian-inspired palette.
Storage for Charcuterie
1. Pre-Assembly Storage
- Prepare Ingredients Separately: If you’re prepping in advance, slice, fold, and prepare ingredients like meats, cheeses, and fruits, but store each type in separate airtight containers. This keeps ingredients fresh and prevents flavors from blending prematurely.
- Keep Moisture-Controlled Items Separate: Place wet items (like cut fruits, olives, and pickles) in their own containers to prevent them from affecting the texture of drier ingredients like crackers or bread.
2. Assembled Board Storage (if making ahead)
- Cover with Plastic Wrap: For a fully assembled board, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to keep everything in place and prevent air exposure. A few sprigs of herbs may need refreshing right before serving to keep them vibrant.
- Store in the Fridge: Place the covered board in the fridge, ideally on a shelf where it won’t be bumped. Most items, especially cheeses and meats, will stay fresh overnight this way.
- Add Crackers Just Before Serving: Crackers and bread can become stale or absorb moisture if stored with the rest of the board. Keep them separate, adding them right before serving.
3. Leftovers
- Separate Components After Serving: Store leftover items individually. Cheeses, meats, fruits, and spreads can go in separate airtight containers to maintain their quality. Crackers should be stored at room temperature to stay crisp.
- Wrap Cheese Well: Re-wrap cheeses in wax or parchment paper, then place them in airtight containers to keep them from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
- Consume Within 3-4 Days: Meats and cheeses are best when eaten within a couple of days. Fruits can usually last a bit longer, though some may lose texture.
4. Special Tips for Freshness
- Herbs: Fresh herbs can wilt quickly; revive them by placing stems in a cup of water in the fridge, covering loosely with a plastic bag.
- Dried Fruits & Nuts: If you used dried fruits or nuts, keep them separate from moist items to prevent them from getting too soft.
What to Serve with Charcuterie Boards
A charcuterie board is often the star of the table, but pairing it with a few additional items can make your spread feel even more complete. Here are some great options to serve alongside your charcuterie board:
Dips & Spreads
- Hummus – A versatile, creamy addition that complements meats, veggies, and crackers.
- Honey or Fig Jam – Adds a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with sharp cheeses and salty meats.
- Mustards – Stone-ground or Dijon mustard is excellent with smoked meats and savory cheeses.
- Olive Tapenade – A flavorful spread that pairs well with bread, crackers, and cheese.
- Pâté or Terrines – For a classic charcuterie pairing that brings richness and depth of flavor.
Small Hot Bites
- Mini Quiches or Tartlets – Savory pastries filled with spinach, cheese, or mushroom add a warm, comforting touch.
- Stuffed Mushrooms or Pigs in a Blanket – These small bites are easy to eat and add variety to your spread. Any handheld apps like pinwheels or even sliders go well.
- Meatballs or Skewers – Small bites of chicken, beef, or shrimp skewers bring more protein and work well with the flavors on the board.
Soups & Salads
- Soups – A warm soup like butternut squash, tomato basil, or a creamy mushroom soup works well as a first course.
- Simple Green Salad – A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette is a nice palate cleanser between bites.
- Pasta Salads or Grain Salads: A cold orzo salad with a vinaigrette pairs well with rich cheeses and meats.
- Caprese Salad – Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic reduction make a great addition.
Wine & Beverage Pairings
- Wine – A light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or a fruity red like Pinot Noir, pairs nicely with most boards. For a winter spread, consider adding a bold Cabernet or a warm mulled wine.
- Sparkling Water or Juice– Add lemon or lime slices for a refreshing, non-alcoholic option.
- Hot Drinks – In cooler months, hot cider or mulled wine can be a cozy addition alongside your board.
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Holiday Charcuterie Board
Ingredients
- 6 ounces blackberries
- 6 ounces blueberries
- 6 ounces raspberries
- 7 ounces green olives
- 9 ounce package of salami
- 9 ounce package of honey ham lunch meat
- 1 ounce fresh dill, (2 packages)
- ½ ounce fresh sage, (1 package)
- 2 cutie oranges
- 6 ounces pepper jack cubes
- 6 ounces cheddar cubes
- 8 ounce wheel Brie
- 4 ounces green grapes
- assorted crackers
Instructions
- Unwrap your brie and cut it in half. Take one half and cut it into triangles. With the other half, use a small cookie cutter to cut out stars.
- Using the package of ham, fold each piece in half then fold like accordian. Place two folded pieces on one toothpick. Repeat with the remaining ham.
- Using the package of salami, fold one piece in half and then it roll up. Place two more folded pieces around the initial rolled-up salami. This will look like a flower or rose. Repeat with the remaining salami.
- Place the fresh dill on your large round platter in a wreath shape (large circle, then small circle).
- Place the berries and green grapes on the dill and then fill in with the prepared meat.
- Add in the cheese cubes, brie triangles, and brie stars.
- Fill in with the olives and cutie oranges.
- Add in sprigs of fresh sage around the wreath.
- Finally, carefully add in assorted crackers around the circumference of the wreath.
- Serve and enjoy!
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Notes
- Separate Components After Serving: Store leftover items individually. Cheeses, meats, fruits, and spreads can go in separate airtight containers to maintain their quality. Crackers should be stored at room temperature to stay crisp.
- Wrap Cheese Well: Re-wrap cheeses in wax or parchment paper, then place them in airtight containers to keep them from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
- Consume Within 3-4 Days: Meats and cheeses are best when eaten within a couple of days. Fruits can usually last a bit longer, though some may lose texture.
Nutrition Information
Nutritional Disclaimer
Soulfully Made is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
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