Save A festive and visually stunning charcuterie board blends savory meats, creamy cheeses, an array of fresh and dried fruits, crunchy nuts, crackers, and homemade cranberry marshmallows for a sweet-tart twist. This platter makes for an irresistible centerpiece at any party or holiday gathering.
The first time I made this board, the cranberry marshmallows became the topic of conversation. Guests reached for seconds and marveled at the blend of sweet, savory, and tangy. It quickly became my go-to for festive spreads.
Ingredients
- Meats: 100 g prosciutto, 100 g soppressata, 100 g smoked turkey slices
- Cheeses: 120 g aged cheddar, cubed, 120 g brie, sliced, 120 g gouda, sliced
- Fruits: 1 cup seedless red grapes, 1 cup fresh strawberries (halved), ½ cup dried apricots
- Nuts & Extras: ½ cup roasted almonds, ½ cup shelled pistachios, ¼ cup olives (green and black mix)
- Crackers & Bread: 1 baguette (sliced), 1 box assorted crackers
- Cranberry Marshmallows: ¾ cup cranberry juice (unsweetened), 1 packet (7 g) powdered gelatin, 1½ cups granulated sugar, ⅓ cup light corn syrup, ¼ cup water, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ cup dried cranberries (chopped), ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting), ½ cup cornstarch (for dusting)
Instructions
- Make the Cranberry Marshmallows:
- Line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment and dust with powdered sugar/cornstarch. In a bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cranberry juice and let bloom 10 minutes. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves. Increase heat and boil until mixture reaches 240°F (115°C). With a mixer on low, pour hot syrup into gelatin. Increase speed to high, beat until thick and glossy (about 10 minutes). Beat in vanilla, fold in dried cranberries. Spread mixture in pan, dust top, and set 4 hours. Cut into cubes and dust all sides.
- Assemble the Charcuterie Board:
- Arrange meats and cheeses in clusters on a large platter. Add piles of grapes, strawberries, and dried apricots. Scatter nuts and olives in bowls or on the board. Fan out baguette slices and arrange crackers. Place cranberry marshmallows in a bowl or pile artistically. Garnish with herbs (optional).
Save My kids love helping arrange the board and deciding on their favorite ingredients. It has become a family tradition to assemble together before guests arrive.
Required Tools
Electric mixer, candy thermometer, 8x8 inch baking pan, saucepan, large serving board or platter, small bowls for nuts/olives.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy, tree nuts, and gelatin. Check product labels for other potential allergens, especially if serving guests with sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1/10 of board) contains approximately 320 calories, 16 g fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 12 g protein.
Save This board brings excitement and elegance to any get-together. The cranberry marshmallows are sure to surprise and delight!
Recipe FAQ
- → What meats work best for a charcuterie board?
For variety, include cured meats like prosciutto and soppressata alongside smoked turkey to suit different palates.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses?
Absolutely! Swap in favorites such as camembert, blue, or aged Manchego to customize the flavor experience.
- → How do I make cranberry marshmallows from scratch?
Bloom gelatin in cranberry juice, then whip it with a hot syrup and fold in dried cranberries before setting in a pan.
- → Is this board suitable for vegetarians?
Omit the meats, add extra cheeses and roasted vegetables. Confirm gelatin-free marshmallows for full vegetarian compatibility.
- → What fruits pair well with the platter?
Fresh grapes, strawberries, and dried apricots balance savory flavors and add beautiful color and freshness.
- → Can I make elements ahead of time?
Cranberry marshmallows can be prepared a day prior and stored airtight. Prep cheeses, meats, and fruit a few hours before serving.
- → What beverages complement this board?
A fruity red wine or sparkling rosé pairs beautifully with the blend of sweet and savory elements.