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
This cheese platter has been a delightful centerpiece at many of our family gatherings, always sparking joy and conversation among guests
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
- Arrange Cheeses:
- Arrange the cheeses on a large wooden board, spacing them apart to allow room for other items
- Prepare Fruits:
- Fan out the apple and pear slices near the cheeses Scatter grapes and blueberries around the board
- Add Nuts & Seeds:
- Add the nuts, seeds, and dried cranberries in small clusters for visual interest
- Place Accompaniments:
- Place crackers and breadsticks in groups, leaning them against cheeses or in small bundles
- Add Spreads:
- Spoon the honey and fig jam into small ramekins or directly onto the board
- Decorate:
- Decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs, edible flowers, and cleaned mushrooms for a woodland effect
- Add Carrots:
- Add baby carrots for pops of color and a playful nod to forest creatures
- Serve:
- Serve immediately or cover loosely and refrigerate until ready to serve
Save This platter always brings our family together, turning any occasion into a magical forest feast
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 per serving
Save This cheese platter is the perfect easy yet impressive addition to any gathering
Kitchen Guide
- → What cheeses are ideal for this platter?
Soft brie, aged cheddar, gouda, blue cheese, and creamy goat cheese offer a balanced variety of textures and flavors that complement one another.
- → Which fruits work best with artisanal cheeses?
Fresh red grapes, apples, pears, blueberries, and dried cranberries provide sweetness and acidity to pair beautifully with rich cheeses.
- → How can I create the woodland aesthetic with garnishes?
Use fresh rosemary sprigs to mimic pine needles, edible flowers like violets, small cleaned mushrooms, and baby carrots for natural, forest-inspired touches.
- → What accompaniments enhance the cheese and fruit board?
Whole grain crackers, mini breadsticks, honey, and fig jam add texture and subtle sweetness that complement the main ingredients.
- → Can I substitute ingredients based on availability?
Yes, swap cheeses, fruits, or nuts according to season or preference without losing the charming woodland effect.