Save A festive and visually stunning snack board arranged in the shape of an evergreen tree, featuring cheeses, charcuterie, fruits, nuts, and crackers—perfect for holiday entertaining.
This was a hit at our last family gathering, bringing everyone together around the colorful and delicious board.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 120 g (4 oz) sharp cheddar, cubed, 120 g (4 oz) gouda, cubed, 120 g (4 oz) brie, sliced into wedges
- Charcuterie (optional for vegetarian): 100 g (3.5 oz) salami, thinly sliced, 100 g (3.5 oz) prosciutto, thinly sliced
- Fresh Vegetables: 1 cup sugar snap peas, 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- Fresh Fruits: 1 cup red grapes, 1 cup green grapes, 1/2 pomegranate, seeds only, 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- Nuts & Extras: 1/2 cup roasted almonds, 1/2 cup pistachios (shelled), 1/4 cup fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Crackers & Dips: 1 box assorted crackers, 1/2 cup hummus, 1/2 cup whole grain mustard
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large wooden board or platter, sketch a rough outline of a tree shape with pencil or parchment (optional).
- Step 2:
- Arrange the broccoli florets and sugar snap peas in the shape of the trees branches, using the cucumber slices to define the edges.
- Step 3:
- Layer cubes and wedges of cheddar, gouda, and brie across the branches for visual interest and flavor variety.
- Step 4:
- Drape slices of salami and prosciutto in loose folds between the cheese and vegetables (omit or substitute with more veggies for a vegetarian board).
- Step 5:
- Fill in gaps with clusters of grapes, pomegranate seeds, and dried cranberries for pops of color and sweetness.
- Step 6:
- Scatter roasted almonds and pistachios evenly across the board.
- Step 7:
- Use crackers to create the trunk of the tree at the base.
- Step 8:
- Tuck fresh rosemary sprigs throughout the branches for a fragrant, evergreen effect.
- Step 9:
- Serve hummus and mustard in small bowls alongside or on the board for dipping.
- Step 10:
- Refrigerate until ready to serve, then enjoy immediately.
Save The kids loved helping arrange the fruits and cheeses into the tree shape, making it a fun family activity.
Required Tools
Large wooden board or platter, small serving bowls, sharp knife, cheese knife
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese), tree nuts (almonds, pistachios), and possibly gluten (crackers). Charcuterie contains pork. For gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 260, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 18 g, Protein 11 g
Save Assemble just before guests arrive for the freshest presentation and crunch.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I arrange the snack board in a tree shape?
Start by sketching a tree outline on the board. Use broccoli florets and sugar snap peas as branches, with cucumber slices to define edges. Arrange cheeses and charcuterie in layers over the branches.
- → What can I substitute for charcuterie for a vegetarian option?
Omit the salami and prosciutto, and substitute with extra vegetables or plant-based cheese alternatives to maintain variety and flavor.
- → How do I keep nuts safe for allergies?
Replace nuts like almonds and pistachios with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds to accommodate nut allergies without losing texture.
- → Can I prepare this snack board ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the board and refrigerate until ready to serve. Add crackers and fresh herbs just before serving for best presentation.
- → What dips pair well with this snack arrangement?
Hummus and whole grain mustard complement the flavors and textures, adding creamy and tangy notes perfect for dipping.