Christmas Tree Cheese Platter
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Cheese boards are a classic feature at most holiday parties, adding a delicious and versatile element to the spread. I have to say, I absolutely love cheese boards for their variety and simplicity—they come together quickly but feel so impressive.
To add a festive twist, I arranged this cheese tray in the shape of a Christmas tree, sticking with a tree theme that came together while planning this week’s posts. You can customize this to your liking by mixing and matching different types of cheese, like sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or gouda, along with both green and red grapes to create visual interest and variety.
The great thing about this cheese board is that you can prepare all the elements in advance, so when it’s party time, you simply assemble the “tree” and set it out for your guests. This Christmas tree cheese board adds a special touch to your holiday table, creating a warm, festive holiday appetizer your guests will love as they snack and mingle. It’s even great for gluten-free guests.
Ingredients to Make a Christmas Tree Cheese Platter
- CHEDDAR CHEESE
- PEPPER JACK CHEESE
- COLBY JACK
- MONTEREY JACK CHEESE
- GREEN GRAPES
- RED GRAPES
- FRESH THYME SPRIGS
- ONION AND CHIVE SPREADABLE CREAM CHEESE
- FRESH PARSLEY
- CELERY
How to Make A Christmas Tree Cheese Platter
To create a festive Christmas tree cheese board, arrange cheese cubes and grapes in rows on a large platter, cutting board, or cheese board to form the shape of a Christmas tree. Begin with your first cheese choice and follow with each listed variety, finishing with Monterey Jack at the base to create layers of different colors and textures.
For a touch of greenery, weave sprigs of fresh thyme throughout the rows of grapes, giving the tree a lively, natural look. Next, form a small ball from cream cheese spread, roll it in chopped parsley until fully coated, and place it at the top of the tree as a decorative “ornament.” Finish by placing a small piece of celery at the bottom of the board to represent the tree trunk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this cheese platter in advance?
Yes! You can pre-cut the cheese and prep the grapes, storing them in separate containers in the fridge. Assemble the tree on your platter just before serving for the best presentation.
How do I prevent the cheese from drying out if made in advance?
Cover the arranged cheese board loosely with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and store it in the refrigerator until serving time. Removing it 15-20 minutes before serving allows the cheese to reach room temperature, enhancing the flavors.
What can I use other than rosemary as garnishes to make it look like a Christmas tree?
Other fresh herbs, like rosemary sprigs or parsley, work wonderfully for adding a “pine needle” effect.
Are there alternatives to grapes that still fit the festive theme?
Absolutely! Other fresh fruit or veggies are a great addition. Try olives, cranberries, cherry tomatoes, pomegranate arils, and dried fruits like apricots or cranberries can add both color and flavor.
What is a good serving size per person?
For a holiday platter with other appetizers, plan on about 2 ounces of cheese per person. Adjust based on the size of your crowd and other available dishes.
How can I add more texture to the Christmas cheese board?
Mix in items like crackers, nuts, or charcuterie slices on the side. Soft cheeses, hard cheeses, and different types of fruits (fresh or dried) help keep each bite interesting.
FOR MORE Christmas RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
- Christmas Tree Veggie Platter
- Easy Cream Cheese Pepper Jelly Tree
- Christmas Tree Brownies
- Christmas Tree Cinnamon Rolls
Christmas Tree Cheese Platter
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 oz pkg cheddar cheese, cut into 3/4 inch cubes
- 8 oz pkg pepper jack cheese cut into 3/4 inch cubes
- 8 oz pkg Colby Jack Cheese cut into 3/4 inch cubes
- 4 oz Monterey jack cheese cut into 3/4 inch cubes
- 1 lb green grapes
- 1 lb red grapes
- 1 pkg fresh thyme springs
- 2 Tbsp onion and chive spreadable cream cheese
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
- 2 inch piece of celery
Instructions
- Place the cheese cubes and grapes in rows on a platter or cheese board to resemble a Christmas tree shape. Place cheese in the order listed above ending with the Monterey jack.
- Arrange the thyme springs through out the grapes on the platter like in the photo of the recipe.
- Roll the cream cheese spread into a ball and then roll in the parsley to coat. Place at the top of the tree. Place the celery piece at the bottom of the tree creating the trunk.
Nutrition
Recipe adapted from Kraft.
