Nutcracker Suite Grazing Board (Print)

A vibrant multi-layered grazing board showcasing colorful cheeses, meats, fruits, nuts, and sweets for festive entertaining.

# What you'll need:

→ Cheeses

01 - 5.3 oz brie (white block)
02 - 5.3 oz aged cheddar (yellow block)
03 - 5.3 oz blue cheese (blue block)
04 - 5.3 oz gouda (orange block)
05 - 3.5 oz cranberry goat cheese (red/pink block)

→ Charcuterie

06 - 3.5 oz prosciutto (pink/rose block)
07 - 3.5 oz salami (red block)
08 - 3.5 oz soppressata (deep red block)

→ Fruits

09 - 1 cup red grapes (red block)
10 - 1 cup green grapes (green block)
11 - 1 cup blueberries (blue block)
12 - 1 cup strawberries (red block)
13 - 1 cup dried apricots (orange block)
14 - 1 cup pomegranate seeds (ruby block)

→ Nuts & Accompaniments

15 - 1/2 cup marcona almonds (white block)
16 - 1/2 cup pistachios (green block)
17 - 1/2 cup candied pecans (brown block)
18 - 1/2 cup mixed olives (green/black block)
19 - 1/2 cup assorted crackers (neutral block)
20 - 1/2 baguette, sliced (neutral block)

→ Sweets

21 - 5.3 oz white chocolate bark (white block)
22 - 5.3 oz dark chocolate (black block)
23 - 12 colorful macarons (various colors)
24 - 12 petit fours (pastel block)

→ Garnishes

25 - Fresh rosemary sprigs (green accents)
26 - Edible flowers (for color pops)

# Directions:

01 - Select a large, sturdy wooden board or assemble multiple tiers using cake stands, pedestals, and platters to create a layered presentation.
02 - Place neutral elements such as crackers, sliced baguette, and nuts around the base tier to form a foundation for color blocks.
03 - Segment each tier by color, organizing cheeses, charcuterie, fruits, and sweets into distinct, visually appealing blocks.
04 - Arrange cheeses in prominent blocks, cutting some into shapes or wedges to emphasize color contrast and texture.
05 - Drape or fold charcuterie pieces elegantly beside or between cheese blocks, maintaining clear color separation.
06 - Fill remaining spaces with fruits, layering and clustering by color to enhance visual drama and balance.
07 - Add nuts, mixed olives, and sweets in complementary color clusters, enhancing the sense of abundance and variety.
08 - Finish with fresh rosemary sprigs and edible flowers to add festive accents and vibrant color pops.
09 - Ensure each tier is stable and accessible before serving immediately for optimal presentation and enjoyment.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's a showstopper that requires zero actual cooking—just thoughtful arrangement and a good eye for color
  • The multi-tiered design means everyone can reach something they love, from cheese lovers to fruit enthusiasts to the sweet-tooths
  • Once assembled, it practically feeds itself, giving you freedom to actually enjoy your guests instead of fussing in the kitchen
02 -
  • Room temperature is your secret weapon—cheeses that are too cold taste one-dimensional and won't spread beautifully. Pull them out 20 minutes before guests arrive
  • Moisture is your enemy. Completely dry everything that comes in contact with water. Wet fruit causes other foods to get soggy, and your masterpiece starts declining the moment excess water touches it
  • Arrange just before serving, not hours ahead. Some elements hold up fine, but soft cheeses and fresh fruit look tired if they've been sitting. Do your prep work early, final assembly close to showtime
03 -
  • Arrange everything except the most delicate elements several hours ahead. Keep it covered with plastic wrap in a cool space. Add fresh fruit, edible flowers, and any foods that wilt or brown close to serving time
  • If you're serving outdoors or in a warm space, keep a backup supply of everything in your kitchen. This board will attract admirers, and popular items disappear fast—having reserves means you can keep it looking abundant and full throughout the evening
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