Save An enchanting cheese platter inspired by the forest, featuring an array of artisanal cheeses, seasonal fruits, nuts, and whimsical garnishes to evoke the charm of woodland creatures. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or as a magical centerpiece.
I love serving this platter at gatherings where it sparks conversations and delight with every bite.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 150 g brie whole wheel, 100 g aged cheddar sliced, 100 g gouda cubed, 100 g blue cheese crumbled, 80 g goat cheese log
- Fruits: 1 small bunch of red grapes, 1 small apple sliced, 1 small pear sliced, 1 handful fresh blueberries, 1 handful dried cranberries
- Nuts & Seeds: 50 g whole walnuts, 50 g roasted almonds, 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
- Accompaniments: 6–8 whole grain crackers, 6–8 mini breadsticks, 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp fig jam
- Decorative Garnishes (for woodland effect): Fresh rosemary sprigs (to resemble pine needles), Edible flowers (such as violets or pansies), Small mushrooms (e.g. button or enoki) cleaned, Baby carrots trimmed
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Arrange the cheeses on a large wooden board spacing them apart to allow room for other items.
- Step 2:
- Fan out the apple and pear slices near the cheeses. Scatter grapes and blueberries around the board.
- Step 3:
- Add the nuts, seeds, and dried cranberries in small clusters for visual interest.
- Step 4:
- Place crackers and breadsticks in groups leaning them against cheeses or in small bundles.
- Step 5:
- Spoon the honey and fig jam into small ramekins or directly onto the board.
- Step 6:
- Decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs, edible flowers, and cleaned mushrooms for a woodland effect.
- Step 7:
- Add baby carrots for pops of color and a playful nod to forest creatures.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately or cover loosely and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Save This platter always brings my family together to share stories and enjoy delicious bites in a relaxed setting.
Notes
For added whimsy, use small cookie cutters to shape cheese slices or arrange nuts and fruits to resemble animal faces. Swap in other cheeses fruits or nuts based on preference or season. Pair with a crisp white wine or light red for best results.
Required Tools
Large wooden serving board, Cheese knives, Small bowls or ramekins, Paring knife
Nutritional Information
Calories 320 Total Fat 21 g Carbohydrates 21 g Protein 12 g
Save A simple yet stunning cheese platter that captures the magic of the forest and delights every guest.
Recipe Q&A
- → What cheeses are included in the platter?
The platter features brie, aged cheddar, gouda, blue cheese, and goat cheese for a diverse flavor profile.
- → Which fruits complement the cheeses best?
Fresh red grapes, apple and pear slices, blueberries, and dried cranberries provide sweetness and texture contrast.
- → How can I add visual appeal to the platter?
Use decorative rosemary sprigs, edible flowers, small mushrooms, and baby carrots for a woodland-inspired look.
- → Are there nuts included in the arrangement?
Yes, whole walnuts, roasted almonds, and pumpkin seeds add crunch and nutty flavors throughout the board.
- → What accompaniments work well on the board?
Whole grain crackers, mini breadsticks, honey, and fig jam complement the cheeses and fruits with texture and sweetness.
- → Can I customize the plank to suit dietary needs?
Yes, you can swap cheeses, fruits, and nuts according to preference or dietary restrictions while maintaining the woodland theme.