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 has become a holiday favorite I love how easy it is to assemble and how beautiful it looks on the table
Ingredients
- Cheese: 400 g (14 oz) white cheddar cheese cut into 2 cm (¾ inch) cubes
- Fruits & Nuts: 100 g (¾ cup) dried cranberries 50 g (½ cup) roasted unsalted pistachios shelled and roughly chopped 1 small bunch of fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Accompaniments: Crackers or crostini for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- 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
- Step 2:
- Sprinkle dried cranberries evenly over and between the cheese cubes
- Step 3:
- Scatter roasted pistachios over the tree for extra color and crunch
- Step 4:
- Tuck small sprigs of fresh rosemary between the cheese cubes to mimic pine branches and add aroma
- Step 5:
- If desired place a small star-shaped piece of cheddar or a cracker at the top as a tree topper
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately with crackers or crostini on the side
Save We love gathering around this tree-shaped appetizer every holiday season sharing stories and laughter as we nibble
Preparation Time
20 minutes no cooking required
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the flavors
Allergen Information
Contains dairy cheese and tree nuts pistachios Gluten may be present in crackers choose gluten-free options if needed
Save This appetizer is as delightful to look at as it is to eat making it a perfect festive addition to any holiday spread
Recipe Guide
- → How do I shape the cheese into a tree?
Arrange cubed white cheddar on a large platter starting with a wide base and gradually tapering to form a pointed top resembling a tree.
- → Can I substitute the pistachios with other nuts?
Yes, toasted pecans or walnuts can be used as alternatives to pistachios for similar texture and flavor.
- → What types of cheese work best for this platter?
Sharp white cheddar is ideal, but manchego or gouda are excellent substitutes depending on your preference.
- → How do the rosemary sprigs enhance the dish?
Fresh rosemary provides a pine-like aroma and visually mimics tree branches, enhancing the festive presentation.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
The main components are gluten-free, but check cracker choices carefully or serve them separately to accommodate gluten sensitivities.