I still remember the year I swapped the usual cheese plate for a Holiday Charcuterie Tree Board. Shaym here from SoolFood, and honestly, I was just trying to impress my cousin who claims she invented Pinterest. I had no idea it would become the star of the table. Guests didn’t just eat it. They photographed it, raved about it, and asked for a tutorial. Now, it’s my go-to for every holiday party. Festive, colorful, and surprisingly easy to make, this edible Christmas tree always steals the show, and keeps everyone snacking all night.
What Is a Holiday Charcuterie Tree Board?
Think of it as your favorite charcuterie platter, meats, cheeses, fruit, crackers, styled in a layered triangle to resemble a Christmas tree. It’s a visual feast that invites everyone to graze while sipping wine, wrapping gifts, or just hanging out by the fire.
It’s not just about how it looks (though it’s totally Instagram-worthy). The flavor combos are endless, and you can make it as simple or elaborate as you like.
What You’ll Need (And Ideas to Mix It Up)
There’s no “perfect” ingredient list, but here’s a balanced starting point for a 2-foot tree on a large cutting board:
- Meats: salami, prosciutto, pepperoni, or coppa
- Cheese: brie wedges, cheddar cubes, mozzarella pearls, gouda slices
- Fruit: grapes, cranberries, pomegranate seeds, figs, apple slices
- Extras: olives, nuts, dried fruit, mini pickles
- Carbs: crackers, breadsticks, crostini
- Herbs: rosemary sprigs for garnish (looks like pine!)
Want to balance the richness? Include fresh veggie pops like cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes.
How to Build Your Charcuterie Tree Board
- Start at the Bottom: Place your larger items (like cheddar cubes or rolled salami) at the base to anchor the shape.
- Layer Upward: Create “rows” that gradually get shorter to form a triangle. Alternate textures and colors for visual interest.
- Add Contrast: Nestle in brie wedges or grape clusters for softness. Use pickles or olives to break up rich flavors.
- Top It Off: Add a star, literally! Use a cookie cutter and a cheddar slice to crown your tree.
- Garnish: Tuck rosemary between rows and scatter pomegranate seeds like ornaments.
Pro Tips for a Party-Ready Tree
✔️ Build it directly on a wood board or slate for rustic charm
✔️ Use mini tongs or toothpicks to keep things tidy
✔️ Prep your ingredients ahead of time, then assemble right before guests arrive
✔️ Drizzle with honey or fig jam on the side for sweetness
If you want to add a warm bite to the table, serve it with these crispy Blooming Onion bites or sweet-savory Air Fryer Carrots for the perfect contrast.
Why It Belongs at Every Holiday Gathering
- It’s festive décor you can eat
- It’s customizable for every diet
- It takes less than 30 minutes to build
- It’s totally photo-worthy for your party feed
Whether it’s Christmas Eve, a holiday brunch, or New Year’s Eve, a Holiday Charcuterie Tree Board is the snack centerpiece that’ll make your guests say, “Wait, you made that?!”