Save A vibrant and inviting platter featuring a selection of cured meats, cheeses, fresh fruit, and crunchy maple-glazed nuts—perfect for sharing at gatherings.
I was inspired to create this charcuterie board for an easy appetizer when hosting friends. The maple glazed nuts were a new addition that received rave reviews at our last get-together.
Ingredients
- Mixed Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, almonds, or cashews, glazed with maple syrup and butter.
- Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup for glazing the nuts.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the glazed nuts.
- Sea Salt: Enhances flavor in the nuts.
- Cayenne Pepper: Optional, gives subtle heat to the nuts.
- Prosciutto: Thinly sliced cured meat.
- Salami: Adds a robust, savory note.
- Coppa or Soppressata: Flavorful Italian cured meats.
- Brie Cheese: Soft and creamy.
- Sharp Cheddar: Adds tangy depth.
- Blue Cheese: Bold, pungent flavor.
- Goat Cheese: Tart and creamy.
- Seedless Grapes: Sweet, juicy bites.
- Dried Apricots: Chewy and naturally sweet.
- Figs: Halved for easy snacking.
- Apple: Sliced for freshness.
- Pomegranate Arils: Optional, for color and crunch.
- Olives: Green or black for salty contrast.
- Cornichons or Gherkins: Tangy pickled accents.
- Honey or Fruit Preserves: For drizzling and dipping.
- Crackers or Crostini: 1–2 types, gluten-free if needed.
Instructions
- Prepare the Maple Glazed Nuts:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, toss nuts with maple syrup, melted butter, salt, and cayenne pepper. Spread nuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring once, until golden. Cool completely.
- Arrange the Charcuterie Board:
- Place cheeses on the board, cutting some into slices or wedges. Arrange meats in folds or rolls around the cheeses. Add grapes, apple slices, dried fruit, and pomegranate arils. Fill small bowls with olives, cornichons, and preserves or honey. Scatter cooled maple glazed nuts over the board and add crackers or crostini last.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate cheeses and meats until ready to serve. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
Save Our family loves gathering around a colorful charcuterie board during holidays, sharing stories over crunchy nuts and creamy cheese. It's become a staple at every celebration!
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowl, chef's knife, serving board or platter, and small bowls for accompaniments are essentials for assembling this board.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains tree nuts and dairy. Check all package labels: meats and crackers may contain gluten or soy.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (approx.) provides 420 calories, 28 g fat, 23 g carbohydrates, and 17 g protein.
Save Gather friends, create your spread, and savor each bite with a crisp wine—this board always delights!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make maple-glazed nuts ahead of time?
Yes, prepare maple-glazed nuts a day in advance and store in an airtight container for freshness.
- → What cheeses work best for a charcuterie board?
Choose a mix of brie, cheddar, goat cheese, and blue cheese for variety and texture.
- → Can I substitute meats for a vegetarian platter?
Absolutely, omit meats and add more cheeses, seasonal fruits, and roasted vegetables.
- → What fruits pair well besides grapes and figs?
Fresh apples, pears, dried apricots, and pomegranate arils add great color and flavor.
- → How should I serve crackers to keep them crisp?
Add crackers or crostini at the end just before serving to prevent sogginess from other ingredients.
- → Are there gluten-free options for this platter?
Use gluten-free crackers or crostini and check cured meat labels for hidden gluten sources.