Save A festive and visually stunning cheese and fruit appetizer shaped like a holiday tree, made with creamy white cheddar, tangy dried cranberries, and fresh herbs.
This appetizer is always a hit at our holiday gatherings and is so easy to assemble, making entertaining stress-free.
Ingredients
- White cheddar cheese: 400 g (14 oz) cut into 2 cm (¾ inch) cubes
- Dried cranberries: 100 g (¾ cup)
- Roasted unsalted pistachios: 50 g (½ cup), shelled and roughly chopped
- Fresh rosemary sprigs: 1 small bunch (for garnish)
- Crackers or crostini: for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Arrange:
- Arrange the white cheddar cubes on a large platter or board in the shape of a tree, starting with a wide base and tapering to a point at the top.
- Sprinkle:
- Sprinkle dried cranberries evenly over and between the cheese cubes.
- Scatter:
- Scatter roasted pistachios over the tree for extra color and crunch.
- Tuck:
- Tuck small sprigs of fresh rosemary between the cheese cubes to mimic pine branches and add aroma.
- Topper:
- If desired, place a small star-shaped piece of cheddar or a cracker at the top as a tree topper.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with crackers or crostini on the side.
Pin it This appetizer brings my family together every year and our kids love helping shape the tree.
Notes
Use a sharp white cheddar for best flavor or swap in manchego or gouda for variation. Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Required Tools
Large serving platter or board, sharp knife, small bowl (for nuts or garnish, optional).
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese) and tree nuts (pistachios). Gluten may be present in crackers& choose gluten-free options if needed. Always double-check labels for hidden allergens.
Pin it This simple yet elegant appetizer is perfect for holiday celebrations and sure to impress your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of cheese works best for this appetizer?
Sharp white cheddar provides a creamy texture and robust flavor, but manchego or gouda can be used for variation.
- → Can I substitute the pistachios with other nuts?
Yes, toasted pecans or walnuts make excellent alternatives to add crunch and flavor.
- → How can I keep the arrangement fresh and appealing?
Arrange ingredients just before serving and use fresh rosemary sprigs to maintain aroma and appearance.
- → Are there gluten-free options for serving?
Yes, pair with gluten-free crackers or crostini to accommodate dietary preferences.
- → What wine pairs well with this cheese and fruit display?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the sharp cheddar and tart cranberries well.