• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
A Day In Candiland
menu icon
go to homepage
  • All Recipes
    • Breakfast
    • Appetizers
    • Side Dishes
    • Dinners
    • Dessert Recipes
  • Afternoon Tea Ideas
    • Tea Sandwiches
    • Tea Beverages
    • Scones
  • Summer Recipes
    • Fall Recipes
    • Winter Holidays
    • Spring
  • Tea Education
    • Tea Gifts
  • About
    • Contact Me
    • Guest Post Policy
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • All Recipes
      • Breakfast
      • Appetizers
      • Side Dishes
      • Dinners
      • Dessert Recipes
    • Afternoon Tea Ideas
      • Tea Sandwiches
      • Tea Beverages
      • Scones
    • Summer Recipes
      • Fall Recipes
      • Winter Holidays
      • Spring
    • Tea Education
      • Tea Gifts
    • About
      • Contact Me
      • Guest Post Policy
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • ×
    Home » Winter Holidays

    How to Make a Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

    Published: Nov 3, 2023 · Modified: Nov 3, 2024 by Candi Elm · This post may contain affiliate links

    57 shares
    • Share
    • Tweet
    • Yummly
    • Email
    • Flipboard
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    This edible Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board combines the joy of decorating a Christmas tree with the irresistible flavors of charcuterie. Assembling this culinary work of art involves arranging a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and complementary accompaniments in the shape of a Christmas tree, transforming a simple appetizer into a visually stunning centerpiece.

    The finished image of a Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board.
    Jump to:
    • Why You Will Enjoy This Recipe
    • Ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Items Needed
    • Substitutions and Variations
    • Storage Tips
    • How Much Food Per Person
    • Related Recipes
    • Recipe
    • Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

    Why You Will Enjoy This Recipe

    Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking to add a touch of whimsy to your Christmas table, crafting a Christmas tree charcuterie board is a creative and delicious way to infuse your festivities with charm and flavor. It is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday season.

     
    Get Tips and Suggestions for your next Charcuterie Board!
    Free Downloadable chart for tips for your Charcuterie Board along with weekly recipes,  baking, and budgeting tips newsletter.
    Thanks! Keep an eye on your inbox for updates.
    Ingredients that go on a Charcuterie Board.

    Ingredients

    • 1 package of mini mozzarella balls
    • 1 package large mozzarella balls
    • 1 package Colby Jack cheese chunks
    • 1 Package Pepper Jack chunks 
    • 1 package of charcuterie meats, salami, coppa and surpressa
    • Raspberries
    • Grape tomatoes
    • Crackers
    • Stuffed olives
    • Almonds

    Instructions

    • Either purchase a wood Christmas Tree board or just design in the shape of the Christmas tree. (Board purchased from the craft store.)
    • Make sure to use a clean board that is food-safe. If using a Christmas Tree Board from a hobby store, either add a layer of saran wrap before adding food or apply a food-safe oil to it first and let dry. 
    • Take your meats, fold them in half, fold them once again, and then insert a toothpick into the bottom point. Continue adding pieces of meat to the toothpick. 
    • Continue with all the meats. You can also roll up each piece and insert a toothpick into it.  
    • Remove the Mozzarella from the package and dry it with a paper towel. Set Aside. 
    • If you purchased the hard cheeses cut into chunks add them to a plate for now, otherwise cut them into ½ “ cubes. 
    • Wash your fruits and vegetables and pat dry with a paper towel. 
    • Get your board or platter ready and start by adding the meats, then cheeses, then fruits and vegetables, and finish off with nuts. 
    • Add some garnish with rosemary sprigs. 
    • Add your crackers and optional items. 
    • Shape into a Christmas Tree if you do not have a shaped board.

    *This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I get a small commission. Please see my disclosure policy for details

    Items Needed

    • A Board or Platter for Your Tree Design
    • Cocktail Forks
    • Cocktail Napkins
    • Small Appetizer Plates
    • Cutting Board to slice Cheeses

    Substitutions and Variations

    • Cured Meats: Traditional cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo are always a hit. Consider choosing a variety of flavors and textures.
    • Cheeses: Include a selection of cheeses such as brie, camembert, cheddar, gouda, and blue cheese. Look for cheeses that pair well with the other components.
    • Fruits: Seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds, figs, grapes, and cranberries add a festive touch. Slices of apple or pear can also complement the flavors.
    • Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and pecans can provide a crunchy element and pair well with cheeses and dried fruits.
    • Dried Fruits: Apricots, dates, and dried cranberries or cherries can add a sweet and chewy dimension to the board.
    • Fresh Herbs: Sprigs of rosemary, thyme, or basil not only add a pop of color but also enhance the overall aroma and presentation.
    • Crackers and Bread: Offer an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, and slices of baguette. You can even use festive-shaped crackers.
    • Honey and Jams: Drizzles of honey and small jars of holiday-themed jams or chutneys can provide a sweet contrast to the savory elements.
    • Pickles and Olives: Include a variety of pickles, such as cornichons or pickled onions, and a selection of olives for a tangy and briny component.
    • Chocolate: Chocolate-covered nuts, truffles, or pieces of chocolate bark can satisfy sweet cravings on your Christmas charcuterie board.
    • Miniature Sausages: Tiny cocktail sausages or mini meatballs with a holiday glaze can be a delightful addition.
    • Festive Garnishes: Edible decorations like edible flowers, star-shaped cheese or vegetable cutouts, and red and green garnishes (e.g., cherry tomatoes and basil) can add a Christmassy look.
    • Sparkling Cider or Wine: To complete the experience, offer some sparkling cider or wine options that pair well with the charcuterie.

    Storage Tips

    Separate and Label Items: After your charcuterie gathering, be sure to separate the different components of the tray, such as cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and condiments. Use airtight containers or resealable bags for each type of item. Label the containers with the date to help you keep track of freshness.

    Refrigerate Promptly: Leftover charcuterie items should be refrigerated as soon as possible to maintain their freshness. Keep cheeses and meats in the fridge at appropriate temperatures (cheeses can vary, but most should be stored at 35-45°F or 1-7°C, while cured meats should be kept below 40°F or 4°C). Fresh fruits and vegetables should also be refrigerated.

    Consume Within a Few Days: While many charcuterie items have decent shelf lives, they are best enjoyed within a few days to maintain their quality. Plan to incorporate leftover items into sandwiches, salads, omelets, or other dishes to make the most of your charcuterie leftovers.

    By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious remnants of your charcuterie tray while keeping the items safe and fresh for future use.

    How Much Food Per Person

    The amount of cheese and meats you need per person for a charcuterie board can vary depending on factors like the size of the board, the number of other items on the board, and the appetite of your guests. As a general guideline, you can plan for approximately 2-3 ounces (about 60-90 grams) of cheese and 2-3 ounces of cured meats per person. This will provide a reasonable portion for your Christmas Tree charcuterie board that is part of a larger spread.

    Here’s a breakdown:

    • Cheese: Aim for a variety of cheese types, such as soft, semi-soft, and hard cheeses. Plan for 2-3 different cheese varieties, and offer about 1-1.5 ounces of each type per person.
    • Cured Meats: Include a mix of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo. Provide 2-3 different types, and offer about 1-1.5 ounces of each type per person.

    Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and it’s a good idea to adjust the quantities based on your specific event and the preferences of your guests. If your charcuterie board is the main focus of your event or if you have particularly enthusiastic meat and cheese lovers, you may want to increase the quantities. Conversely, for smaller gatherings with many other food options, you can reduce the amounts accordingly.

    To ensure you have enough for your guests, consider the number of people attending and their individual preferences. It’s better to have a little extra than to run out, especially if you’re hosting a holiday gathering. Additionally, the variety and arrangement of other items on the charcuterie board, such as fruits, nuts, crackers, and condiments, can also influence the overall quantity you need.

    Meats and cheeses and tomato's on a charcuterie board.

    Related Recipes

    • Valentines Day Charcuterie Board
    • How to Make a Charcuterie Board
    • 15 Delicious Holiday Appetizer Recipes
    • Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Chips

    If you loved this recipe and made it, please give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review! Leave me a comment about your experience with this recipe. You can also pin it to Pinterest or share it on Facebook.

    Recipe

    Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

    Assembling this culinary work of art involves arranging a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and complementary accompaniments in the shape of a Christmas tree, transforming a simple appetizer into a visually stunning centerpiece.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print SaveSaved! Pin
    Course: Appetizer
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 25 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 25 minutes minutes
    Servings: 4 People
    Author: Candi Elm

    Ingredients  

    • 1 mini mozzarella balls
    • 1 large mozzarella balls
    • 1 Colby Jack cheese chunks
    • 1 Pepper Jack chunks
    • 1 charcuterie meats salami, coppa and surpressa
    • Raspberries
    • Grape tomatoes
    • Crackers
    • Stuffed olives
    • Almonds

    Instructions

    • Either purchase a wood Christmas Tree board or just design in the shape of the Christmas tree. (Board purchase from craft store.)
    • Make sure to use a clean board and is food safe. If using a Christmas Tree Board from a hobby store, either add a layer of saran wrap before adding food or apply a food safe oil to it first and let dry.
    • Take your meats and fold them in half and fold them once again and then insert a toothpick into the bottom point. Continue adding pieces of meat to the toothpick.
    • Continue with all the meats. You can also roll up each piece and insert a toothpick into it.
    • Remove the Mozzarella from package and dry with a paper towel. Set Aside.
    • If you purchased the hard cheeses cut into chucks add to a plate for now, otherwise cut into ½ “ cubes.
    • Wash your fruits and vegetables and pat dry with a paper towel.
    • Get your board or platter ready and start by adding the meats, then cheeses, then fruits and vegetables and finish off with nuts.
    • Add some garnish with rosemary sprigs.
    • Add your crackers and optional items.
    • Shape into a Christmas Tree if you do not have a shaped board.

    Notes

    Optional Ingredients 
    • Pecans
    • Pistachios
    • Black Olives
    • Pomegranate Seeds
    • Rosemary
    • Cookies
    • Grapes
    • Pretzels
    • Chocolates
    • Cornichons 
    • Blueberries
    • Jam, Jellys or Chutney
    Tried this recipe?Mention @candilandblogs or tag #adayincandiland!

    More Winter Holidays

    • How to Make Homemade Chai Spice Mix
    • Christmas Crack Candy with M & Ms
    • Easy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
    • Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies

    Appetizers, Winter Holidays

    About Candi Elm

    Candi Elm is the recipe developer and food photographer at A Day In Candiland where she has been sharing Encouragement, Recipes, and Afternoon Tea Ideas since 2012. Candi currently lives in Southern California with her family and enjoying life to the fullest.

    5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

    Primary Sidebar

    I’m Candi, a recipe and all things Tea blogger. I create family-friendly recipes along with sharing encouragement in your daily life.

    More about me →

    Strawberry Scones
    Dessert Table for Mother's Day Tea Party. Filled with cake, tea, cupcakes and creamer bowl.
    Mother's Day Tea Party
    2
    Lavender Earl Grey Cupcakes
    Hibiscus Iced Tea

    Birthday Tea Party

    Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

    Printables Shop
    The Teacup Story
    What is a Tea Ministry

    Popular

    • Hibiscus Green Tea Spritzer

    • Iced Blueberry Matcha Latte

    • How to Throw a Beautiful Tea Party Birthday Celebration

    • Complete Guide to Planning a Mother’s Day Tea Party

    DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

    A Day in Candiland  is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Accessibility
    • Disclosure Policy
    • Privacy Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • About
    • Contact

    All content and photos are the property of A Day in Candiland. We love it when you share, so you may use a single image with a direct link back to the original piece of content. Republishing any content in its entirety is strictly prohibited. Please see our Privacy Policy for details.

    Copyright © 2025 A Day In Candiland

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.