Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best Christmas charcuterie board ingredients, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Christmas Star – To make the tree star, I used a whole wheel of Brie filled with pomegranate seeds. Chocolate chips or jam make good alternatives if you want something more sweet. Cheese – I added slices of sharp cheddar cheese and white cheddar cheese to the board. You can pick others types of cheese such as pepper jack cheese, Colby jack cheese, goat cheese, mozzarella balls, or any hard and soft cheese you prefer. Crackers – These make the tree stump. I used these gluten free crackers, but you can use any kind you like, or make homemade cheese crackers or flax seed crackers. Olives – To infuse some zesty flavors and a pop of color, I included pimento-stuffed olives, but you can opt for green olives, black olives, or kalamata olives. If you’re not a fan of olives, cherry tomatoes would work well. Pickles – Mini dill pickles bring a salty kick. Meats – I used salami and prosciutto, but you could use turkey slices, ham, pepperoni, or any charcuterie meat you prefer. If you don’t like sliced meats, make chicken liver pate. You can also skip the meats and just make it a cheese board. Fruit – You will need apples, kiwis, and red or green grapes. Strawberries, citrus segments, or pear slices would also work. Nuts – I use a combination of pecans, pistachios, and cashews for this holiday charcuterie board, but almonds, walnuts, or any nuts will work. Fresh Herbs – Use fresh rosemary sprigs or thyme sprigs for a fragrant and decorative touch.
How To Make A Christmas Charcuterie Board
This section shows how to make a Christmas tree charcuterie board, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
Storage Instructions
Store all items, excluding crispy ones (such as nuts and crackers), in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can prepare all the components in advance and assemble them just before enjoying your meal. Make a Christmas charcuterie wreath by arranging the cheeses, meats, olives, and pickles in a circle with a hole in the middle. Then, add fresh rosemary sprigs, red berries, and a ribbon on top for a festive touch.
What To Serve With A Holiday Charcuterie Board
Not sure what you are making for Christmas dinner? Make your holiday feast with some of these delicious recipes:
Christmas Mains – Make a a perfectly roasted turkey, juicy prime rib roast, tender roasted beef tenderloin, or buttery lobster thermidor for an impressive table centerpiece. Christmas Sides – Try creamy mashed potatoes, savory bacon wrapped asparagus, or a classic side of my green beans almondine recipe. Salads – A winter salad with pomegranate seeds, blue cheese, and candied pecans offers a sweet and savory contrast to the richness of the charcuterie.
More Christmas Appetizer Recipes
Looking for more appetizers for your holiday celebrations? Here are some of my most popular options: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. Nutrition info uses salami meat, and does not include optional (decorative) rosemary.
