The Journal
Christmas Charcuterie Board Ideas for a Small Gathering
Build a festive board that’s easy to share, with a layout for a Christmas tree serving board and simple swaps for a smaller plate.
A Christmas board can do the work of a centerpiece and an appetizer. For a small gathering, start with a few things people can pick up easily and leave some of the serving board visible.
Build the shape before you fill it
On a tree-shaped board, set a small sprig of rosemary or a cheese star near the tip. Work downward with wider rows of cheddar, folded salami, grapes and crackers. Leave the lowest row open enough to lift pieces without disturbing the rest of the board.
Give the loose bits a place
Put olives, jam or nuts in a small dish at the wider end. Keep a second plate of crackers nearby so you can top up the board without piling everything on at once. Use separate serving utensils and place any allergy-sensitive foods on their own plate when guests need them separated.
Try the same layout on a round board
Curve the ingredients around the edge and leave space in the middle for a small bowl. If you’re using a narrower board, repeat a few small groups of cheese and fruit instead of making long rows.
Choose a board people can reach
Lynn & Liana’s Christmas Tree Resin Charcuterie Board has a tree silhouette and a resin accent. For other shapes, browse Christmas charcuterie and cheese boards. Set embroidered Christmas cocktail napkins nearby and see the Christmas Shop for the rest of the table.
