Print

Budget Christmas Charcuterie

Budget Christmas Charcuterie

A festive and budget-friendly Christmas charcuterie board featuring a variety of cheeses, fresh fruits, crackers, and holiday treats, beautifully arranged to create a stunning appetizer for holiday gatherings. Perfect for entertaining guests with a mix of sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 small wheel of Brie
  • 2–3 tablespoons raspberry jam
  • 1 block of cheddar cheese, cubed
  • Seeds from 1 fresh pomegranate or 1 small package of pre-packaged pomegranate seeds
  • 1 carton strawberries
  • 1 carton raspberries
  • 1 carton blackberries
  • 1 small bag of holiday-themed Ritz crackers
  • 1 small bag of Tuscan crackers or similar (Wheat Thins, Triscuits)
  • 1 small package mini gingerbread cookies
  • 1 small package Marshmallow Santas (from Dollar Tree)
  • 1 small package peppermint bark (from Dollar Tree)

Instructions

  1. Cut the top off the Brie wheel and spread raspberry jam on the exposed surface.
  2. Use a small Christmas tree cookie cutter to cut a shape from the Brie’s top and place it over the jam layer.
  3. If using a fresh pomegranate, extract the seeds carefully by cutting it submerged in water to avoid a mess. Otherwise, use pre-packaged seeds.
  4. Select a circular cutting board and place the Brie on one side and a small bowl of pomegranate seeds on the opposite side.
  5. Arrange cubed cheddar cheese in two opposite clusters for visual balance.
  6. Distribute strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries in clusters around the board for color and variety.
  7. Place crackers and cookies in small groupings around the board and along the edges for structure.
  8. Fill in empty spaces with Marshmallow Santas, peppermint bark, and mini gingerbread cookies for festive flair.
  9. Use any leftover items to fill remaining gaps, and place decorative knives or utensils near the Brie.

Notes

  • Use a circular board for better visual balance and arrangement.
  • Substitute Brie with another soft cheese like cream cheese or a cheese ball if preferred.
  • Shop for small packaged items to reduce waste and save money.
  • Use ingredients already in your pantry like jams or nuts to cut costs.
  • Assemble the board 2–4 hours in advance, adding crackers just before serving.