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This fall charcuterie board brings together the season’s best flavors in an easy and elegant way. It’s perfect for fall parties or intimate gatherings, offering a delightful mix of savory meats, bold cheeses, fresh fruit, and festive snacks to please every palate.
I first put together this board for a cozy October evening with friends and everyone was impressed by how festive and satisfying it was. Since then, it has become my go-to when I want something quick but special.
Ingredients
- Italian Dry Salami: offers a robust and slightly spicy flavor choose slices that are thin and well marbled for best taste
- Peppered Salami: adds a peppery kick and contrast to the milder meats look for bold peppercorns that coat each slice
- Prosciutto: brings a delicate and silky texture, giving richness without heaviness buy from a trusted deli for the freshest slices
- Cranberry Goat Cheese: this cheese adds a creamy tartness with a festive burst of cranberries pick one that is soft and spreadable
- Dutch Spicy Kaas Red and green and white square cheese: these bring color and a mild but piquant cheese experience opt for firm blocks with smooth textures
- Creamy Toscano Cheese: a rich and buttery cheese that pairs well with fruit should be soft and slightly aged for depth
- Beemster Cheese: known for its nutty and slightly sweet profile choose a block with a firm yet pliable texture
- Pumpkin Cranberry Crisps from Trader Joes: these crackers bring a seasonal twist and light fruity flavor store sealed to keep crispness
- Pumpkin Flavored Sandwich Cookies: add a sweet touch with familiar fall spices look for cookies with fresh spice aroma
- Pumpkin Spice Batons: crunchy and spiced crispy treats that add texture contrast to the board
- Fresh Strawberries, Red Globe Grapes, Green Apples, Blueberries, and Blackberries: fresh fruit provides juiciness and balance, look for vibrant color and firmness for best flavor
- Pumpkin Dip: a creamy and slightly sweet dip that ties everything together with festive flavor homemade or storebought both work well
Instructions
- Savor the cheeses first:
- Arrange all cheeses on your board strategically to create a balanced look. Cluster creamy cheeses like goat cheese near the center while firmer cheeses like Beemster go toward the edges. This visual appeal invites guests to start nibbling at the cheeses.
- Add the salami and prosciutto:
- Next place the Italian dry salami, peppered salami, and prosciutto in small folded or rolled piles next to the cheeses. This layout allows guests to grab meat easily without overwhelming the board visually.
- Incorporate the meats and fruit:
- Place the fresh fruit such as strawberries, grapes, apples, blueberries, and blackberries in little clusters around the meats and cheeses. This offers refreshing bursts of flavor and cleanses the palate between bites of rich cheese and meats.
- Fill gaps with crackers and cookies:
- Finally fill in any empty spaces with the pumpkin cranberry crisps, pumpkin flavored sandwich cookies and pumpkin spice batons. These add crunch and sweetness, perfect for pairing with the meats and cheeses.
I love the cranberry goat cheese because it beautifully combines the tartness of cranberries with a smooth creamy texture, making it the centerpiece of the board. One memorable gathering was when my family surprised me by making this same board for my birthday, showing how much they loved it too.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers tightly wrapped in the fridge and consume within three days to maintain freshness. Keep crackers and cookies sealed in an airtight container separately to preserve their crisp texture. If storing fruit coated in coatings, store separately to avoid sogginess.
Ingredient substitutions
Prosciutto can be swapped with thinly sliced smoked ham or speck if unavailable. Cranberry goat cheese can be replaced with any soft flavored goat cheese such as honey or herb infused varieties. If pumpkin flavored cookies are hard to find, ginger snaps also pair nicely with this board.
Serving suggestions
Serve with a selection of red and white wines such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to complement the variety of cheeses and meats. Sparkling apple cider or a light bourbon cocktail also works well in cooler weather. Include small plates and cheese knives for convenience.
Enjoy assembling and sharing this festive fall charcuterie board with friends and family. It’s an effortless way to celebrate the season.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What types of meats are included in the board?
The board features Italian dry salami, peppered salami, and prosciutto for a savory variety.
- → Which cheeses complement the fall flavors?
Cranberry goat cheese, Dutch spicy kaas, creamy Toscano, and Beemster cheese offer a balance of creamy and spicy notes.
- → What fruits bring brightness to the board?
Strawberries, red globe grapes, green apples, blueberries, and blackberries add fresh and colorful sweetness.
- → Are there any special crackers or cookies included?
Pumpkin cranberry crisps, pumpkin-flavored sandwich cookies, and pumpkin spice batons provide seasonal crunch.
- → How is the board assembled for the best presentation?
Start with cheeses, layer meats next, add fresh fruit, and fill gaps with crackers and cookies for an inviting display.