When it comes to holiday gatherings, few things impress guests more than a beautifully arranged charcuterie board. This Christmas-themed charcuterie board combines festive colors, seasonal treats, and clever money-saving tips, ensuring you can create a show-stopping centerpiece without overspending.
Why This Christmas Charcuterie Board Stands Out
- Festive Elegance: Features red, green, and white hues to match the season’s spirit.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, seasonal, and simple ingredients.
- Easy to Customize: Adapt the layout and ingredients based on what you have or what’s on sale.
Christmas Charcuterie Board Ingredients
Cheese and Spread:
- 1 small wheel of Brie
- 2-3 tablespoons raspberry jam
- Pomegranate seeds (from one fresh pomegranate or pre-packaged)
Fruits:
- 1 carton strawberries
- 1 carton raspberries
- 1 carton blackberries
Crackers and Cookies:
- Holiday-themed Ritz crackers (trees, ornaments, etc.)
- 1 small bag of Tuscan crackers (or Wheat Thins, Triscuits)
- Mini gingerbread cookies
Candy and Treats:
- Marshmallow Santas (from Dollar Tree)
- Peppermint bark (from Dollar Tree)
Optional Festive Touches:
- Small Christmas cookie cutter
- Decorative knives (gingerbread man, candy cane styles)
Instructions
- Prep the Brie:
- Cut the top off the Brie wheel.
- Add a layer of raspberry jam to the exposed surface.
- Using a small Christmas tree cookie cutter, cut out a tree shape from the Brie top. Place the cutout on top of the jam.
- Prepare the Pomegranate Seeds:
- If using fresh pomegranate, extract the seeds carefully. (Tip: Submerge the pomegranate in water while cutting to reduce mess.)
- Assemble the Board:
- Base: Use a circular cutting board for a balanced layout.
- Placement: Position the Brie with the jam tree and a bowl of pomegranate seeds on opposite sides.
- Fruits: Scatter strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries in clusters for a pop of color.
- Cheese and Crackers: Arrange cheddar cubes and crackers in groups, repeating elements around the board for balance.
- Gingerbread Men: Nestle these cookies in empty spaces to add charm.
- Add the Holiday Flair:
- Place Marshmallow Santas and peppermint bark strategically for festive highlights.
- Use holiday-themed crackers for a playful touch.
- Finishing Touches:
- Fill in gaps with additional fruits, crackers, or candy.
- Use decorative knives to elevate the look.
Budget Tips for Success
- Choose Seasonal Fruits: Pomegranates and peppermint bark are often affordable during the holidays.
- Buy Small Packages: Opt for single-serving sizes of treats and snacks to reduce costs and waste.
- Use What You Have: Incorporate jams, nuts, or other items already in your pantry.
- Repurpose Ingredients: Use leftover pomegranate seeds in a salad or other dishes.
Inspiration and Creativity
Take inspiration from Pinterest or Instagram photos, but don’t feel pressured to replicate every detail. Focus on the colors and arrangement to make the board your own. Small adjustments, like swapping out fruits or shapes, keep the project stress-free and fun.
Serving Suggestion
Pair this Christmas charcuterie board with the Salmon Dill Cream Cheese Appetizer for a festive and elegant spread that your guests will rave about.
Make your holiday celebration memorable without overspending, and don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram. Tag me for a chance to showcase your stunning Christmas charcuterie board! 🎄
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Christmas Charcuterie Board
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 1x
Description
A festive and budget-friendly Christmas charcuterie board featuring cubed cheddar cheese, fresh fruits, crackers, and holiday treats arranged beautifully to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Cheese and Spread:
- 1 small wheel of Brie
- 2–3 tablespoons raspberry jam
- Pomegranate seeds (from one fresh pomegranate or pre-packaged)
- 1 block of cheddar cheese, cubed
Fruits:
- 1 carton strawberries
- 1 carton raspberries
- 1 carton blackberries
Crackers and Cookies:
- Holiday-themed Ritz crackers (trees, ornaments, etc.)
- 1 small bag of Tuscan crackers (or Wheat Thins, Triscuits)
- Mini gingerbread cookies
Candy and Treats:
- Marshmallow Santas (from Dollar Tree)
- Peppermint bark (from Dollar Tree)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Brie:
- Remove the top of the Brie wheel. Spread raspberry jam on the surface.
- Use a small Christmas tree cookie cutter to create a festive design from the Brie’s top layer, and place the cutout over the jam.
-
Prep Pomegranate Seeds:
- Extract seeds from a fresh pomegranate or use pre-packaged seeds.
-
Assemble the Board:
- Place the Brie with the jam tree on one side of a circular cutting board.
- Position a small bowl of pomegranate seeds on the opposite side of the board.
-
Add the Cheddar Cheese:
- Arrange the cubed cheddar cheese in two clusters on opposite ends of the board. This creates balance and helps fill the space.
-
Add Fruits and Crackers:
- Arrange strawberries in two clusters, ensuring a pop of red color in different areas.
- Place raspberries and blackberries in separate groups around the board, alternating light and dark colors.
- Add crackers (both Ritz and Tuscan) around the perimeter of the board and in smaller clusters near the Brie.
-
Incorporate Holiday Touches:
- Scatter Marshmallow Santas, peppermint bark, and mini gingerbread cookies across the board for festive flair.
-
Fill Gaps and Finalize:
- Fill any remaining gaps with extra fruit, crackers, or candy. Add decorative knives or small serving utensils for an elegant touch.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
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