Simple and Beautiful Charcuterie Christmas Tree Appetizer!

Move over boring cheese platters, the Appetizer Christmas Tree is here to takeover the holiday spotlight. This festive centerpiece combines cheese, salami, rosemary to create a show-stopping dish that everyone will adore. It is suitable as an appetizer or party snack, and is as delicious as it is delightful. With just a few simple ingredients and creative stacking, you’ll have a treat that screams holiday cheer.

This is a tree built from savory bites, decorated with edible ornaments, and crowned with a cheesy star. It’s the perfect addition to your holiday table, especially for those who appreciate good food and festive fun!

What is an Appetizer Christmas Tree?

Ingredients like cheese cubes, salami, walnuts, and rosemary are layered to mimic the look of a Christmas tree, while fresh cranberries and sour candies act as festive decorations.

This platter is a conversation starter that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a mix of flavors and textures, salty, sweet, crunchy, and creamy, that appeal to all taste buds. Plus, it’s an excellent activity for kids and adults alike to assemble together.

Pro Tips for the Best Appetizer Christmas Tree

• Use semi-hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda to ensure the cubes hold their shape.
• Fresh rosemary is key. Not only does it add a pop of green, but it also smells amazing and enhances the holiday vibe.
• Cut cheese stars with precision. Use a sharp cookie cutter for clean edges and chill the cheese beforehand.
• Keep balance in mind. Distribute ingredients evenly for stability and aesthetics.
• You can get creative with decorations:. Use edible glitter or small sprigs of herbs for extra flair.

Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?

Feel free to experiment with your favorites, but make sure it is firm enough to cut into cubes and stars.

What Can I Substitute for Salami?

If salami isn’t your thing, prosciutto, pepperoni, or even vegetarian deli slices work well.

How Far in Advance Can I Make This?

You can assemble it up to 6 hours ahead. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving time.

What Other Decorations Can I Use?

Try pomegranate seeds, edible flowers, or small candy canes for extra holiday pizzazz.

What’s The Best Way to Serve This?

Place the tree on a sturdy board or platter, and provide small tongs or toothpicks for easy serving.

Is This Kid-Friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the interactive element of assembling the tree and snacking on the decorations.

How to Store Any Leftovers

Wrap the remaining tree tightly in plastic wrap or transfer individual components to airtight containers. Cheese and salami can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, while fresh rosemary and cranberries may last a bit longer. Remove any soggy elements before reassembling or serving again.

How to Make Appetizer Christmas Tree

Step 1

Step 1

Step 1. Divide your cheese into two portions. Cut one half into cubes and use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut stars from the other half.

Step 1. Divide your cheese into two portions. Cut one half into cubes and use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut stars from the other half.

Step 2

Step 2

Step 2. Fold the salami slices into quarters or fan shapes for an elegant look.

Step 2. Fold the salami slices into quarters or fan shapes for an elegant look.

Step 3

Step 3

Step 3. Start by placing a cheese star on top as the tree’s crown. Then layer the ingredients by begining with candy, salami, walnuts, more salami, cheese cubes, rosemary sprigs for greenery, and cinnamon sticks as a tree trunk. The benefit of alternating layers is to create the branches of your tree.

Step 3. Start by placing a cheese star on top as the tree’s crown. Then layer the ingredients by begining with candy, salami, walnuts, more salami, cheese cubes, rosemary sprigs for greenery, and cinnamon sticks as a tree trunk. The benefit of alternating layers is to create the branches of your tree.

Scatter fresh cranberries for pops of red and tuck crackers around the base as edible “presents.” Add more rosemary to fill any gaps.