How to Build a Festive Cheese Board That Will Be the Star of Your Upcoming Holiday Gathering

As a self-proclaimed cheese connoisseur, a festive cheese board is my entertaining cheat code especially for the holidays. It requires some prep of arranging the cheeses on the board. But once you set it out on a table, guests can help themselves to their favorite salty, nutty or pungent cheeses all night. Also, adding other ingredients like cured meats and olives to the spread makes it more filling and flavorful. So, if you need tips and inspiration for building the ultimate cheese board, browse our easy guide below! 

Is a charcuterie board the same as a cheese board?

While both appetizer spreads are delicious, a cheese board and a charcuterie board aren’t the same. A cheese board will have a range of cheeses served, while charcuterie focuses on highlighting various cured meats. One of the perks of making a cheese board is you can serve as many varieties as you wish, which allows guests to try out different flavors.

5 keys elements of a holiday cheese board

When brainstorming your cheese board spread, keep in mind these five elements to include.

1. The board

Figuring out the right board to use is key as you want enough room to accommodate the cheeses and other ingredients. Therefore, it’s best to use a large and sturdy board such as this Bamboo Cutting Board from Allsum for a sturdy yet affordable buy or Âme Atendre’s Wooden Serving Board as it features two mirrored cut-out handles and is made with premium-grade hardwood.

2. Cheeses

With your ideal board in tow, it’s now time to decide on which cheeses will go on the surface. You’ll want to have a mix of hard and soft cheeses so there’s a range of flavors and textures within the spread. That said, classic picks like Brie, cheddar, Gouda and fresh mozzarella are great sports as they’re crowd favorites. If you want to throw some experimental options in there, Lifeway Farmer Cheese is a soft and tangy variety that’s excellent to spread on crackers; Président’s Leerdammer Cheese is a unique option that boasts a nutty flavor like Swiss and creaminess similar to Gouda; and Monti Trentini’s Truffle Caciotta Cheese is a rich and sweet pick with flecks of aromatic black truffle. Ultimately, there’s a cheese for everyone and your party spread should reflect that.

3. Meats

Including a couple kinds of cured meat to your board adds a salty kick to each bite of cheese. So, consider arranging slices of prosciutto, chorizo, ham and pepperoni on the surface. Evan Inada, charcuterie director at Columbus Craft Meats, notes that salami is another worthy option for complex meaty taste. “For me, it’s all about finding that perfect balance, and the rich, nuanced flavor of salami plays a big part in that, which is why high-quality salami is so important,” he says.  

4. Bread or crackers

A cheese board isn’t complete without toasted bread, crackers and/or breadsticks for a crunchy texture. It’s a good idea to have a plain variety and one that’s flavored to complement the salty and pungent flavors of the cheese and remaining accoutrements.

5. Extras

To round out the spread, place additional ingredients like olives, jams or spreads, fruits and nuts on the board. “For the holidays, I love to incorporate seasonal produce and festive accoutrements like pomegranate seeds, dried cranberries and spiced nuts,” Inada says. “These touches not only add to the flavor but also make the board look vibrant and celebratory, which is what holiday entertaining is all about.” 

3 creative ideas for a holiday cheese board

Need inspiration on giving your cheese board a festive touch? Check out these three ideas that are full of holiday cheer!

1. Snowflake-Inspired Cheese Board

This hack posted on Tasty’s YouTube channel showcases you can take a wheel of Brie, like Président’s Brie Round, and transform it into an edible snowflake masterpiece that guests will rave over.

2. Red and Green Cheese Board

For a cheese with pops of Christmassy red and green, give this cheese board idea from Cooking with Cocktail Rings a try.

3. Santa-Themed Cheese Board

Loved ones will be lined up to take photos of your cheese board, especially if you prepare this Santa-themed version from blogger Kaitlyn Anderson.

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