Print

Best Easy Cranberry Bliss Charcuterie Board for Festive Fun

cranberry charcuterie board - featured image
Print Recipe

A light and festive charcuterie board featuring a homemade cranberry topping, creamy cheeses, fresh fruit, and crunchy nuts. Perfect for holiday gatherings and easy to assemble in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 8 oz brie cheese
  • 4 oz goat cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds or walnuts
  • 1 cup fresh apple slices (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 cup fresh pear slices (Bosc or Bartlett)
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots or figs
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or shavings
  • 1 cup crackers (whole wheat and rosemary-infused)
  • 1/2 cup celery sticks or cucumber slices
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Cranberry Topping: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, maple syrup, orange zest, and cinnamon. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
  2. Prep the Cheese: Take the brie and goat cheese out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to soften to room temperature. Slice the brie into wedges or leave it whole.
  3. Prep the Fruit: Slice the apple and pear into thin wedges. Toss with 1 tablespoon lemon juice to prevent browning, then pat dry. Slice dried apricots or figs in half if large.
  4. Toast the Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds or walnuts for 2-3 minutes, shaking frequently, until fragrant. Let cool.
  5. Assemble the Board: Place bowls of cranberry topping and any dips on the board. Arrange brie and goat cheese on opposite sides. Add crackers in small clusters around the cheese. Fill gaps with fruit slices, dried fruit, toasted nuts, and chocolate shavings. Tuck in fresh rosemary sprigs for color.
  6. Serve: Let the board sit at room temperature for up to 30 minutes before serving. Do not refrigerate once assembled.

Notes

Make cranberry topping up to 3 days ahead. Let cheese come to room temperature for best flavor. To prevent apple browning, toss with lemon juice. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheeses. For low-carb, use cucumber rounds or endive leaves instead of crackers.

Nutrition

Keywords: charcuterie board, cranberry, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, festive board, cheese board

Find it online: https://bakebelle.com/best-easy-cranberry-bliss-charcuterie-board-for-festive-fun/