Pin An enchanting cheese platter inspired by the forest, featuring an array of artisanal cheeses, seasonal fruits, nuts, and whimsical garnishes to evoke the charm of woodland creatures. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or as a magical centerpiece.
This platter always delights my guests and brings a touch of woodland magic to any event.
Ingredients
- Cheeses: 150 g brie whole wheel, 100 g aged cheddar sliced, 100 g gouda cubed, 100 g blue cheese crumbled, 80 g goat cheese log
- Fruits: 1 small bunch of red grapes, 1 small apple sliced, 1 small pear sliced, 1 handful fresh blueberries, 1 handful dried cranberries
- Nuts & Seeds: 50 g whole walnuts, 50 g roasted almonds, 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
- Accompaniments: 6–8 whole grain crackers, 6–8 mini breadsticks, 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp fig jam
- Decorative Garnishes (for woodland effect): Fresh rosemary sprigs (to resemble pine needles), Edible flowers (such as violets or pansies), Small mushrooms (e.g. button or enoki) cleaned, Baby carrots trimmed
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Arrange the cheeses on a large wooden board, spacing them apart to allow room for other items.
- Step 2:
- Fan out the apple and pear slices near the cheeses. Scatter grapes and blueberries around the board.
- Step 3:
- Add the nuts, seeds, and dried cranberries in small clusters for visual interest.
- Step 4:
- Place crackers and breadsticks in groups, leaning them against cheeses or in small bundles.
- Step 5:
- Spoon the honey and fig jam into small ramekins or directly onto the board.
- Step 6:
- Decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs, edible flowers, and cleaned mushrooms for a woodland effect.
- Step 7:
- Add baby carrots for pops of color and a playful nod to forest creatures.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately or cover loosely and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Pin Assembling this cheese platter always brings my family together, sharing stories amid bites of delicious bites from the forest.
Tips for Presentation
Use small cookie cutters to shape cheese slices and arrange nuts and fruits to resemble animal faces for added whimsy.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this platter with a crisp white wine or a light red to complement the varied flavors.
Storage Information
If not serving immediately, cover loosely and refrigerate. Consume within 24 hours for freshness.
Pin This whimsical cheese platter is sure to enchant guests and elevate any gathering.
Recipe Q&A
- → What cheeses work best for this platter?
A selection including brie, aged cheddar, gouda, blue cheese, and goat cheese provides a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
- → Can I substitute the fruits?
Yes, seasonal fruits like figs, pears, or apples can be swapped according to availability and preference.
- → How can I make the platter more visually appealing?
Arrange cheeses and accompaniments with space, add edible flowers, fresh rosemary, and small mushrooms for a woodland effect.
- → What accompaniments enhance this selection?
Whole grain crackers, mini breadsticks, honey, and fig jam complement the cheeses and add variety.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it includes vegetarian-friendly cheeses and plant-based accompaniments without meat or fish products.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cover the platter loosely and refrigerate; consume within a day for freshness.