Save to Pinterest A festive and vibrant appetizer platter arranged in the shape of a holiday wreath, featuring tangy cranberry sauce, creamy cheeses, savory meats, and crisp accompaniments — perfect for entertaining.
I love serving this cranberry wreath platter at holiday gatherings because it always impresses guests with its beautiful presentation and variety of flavors.
Ingredients
- Cranberry Sauce: 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 tsp orange zest
- Cheeses: 150 g (5 oz) brie sliced, 150 g (5 oz) sharp white cheddar cubed, 120 g (4 oz) goat cheese formed into small rounds
- Meats (optional for non-vegetarian platter): 100 g (3.5 oz) prosciutto thinly sliced, 100 g (3.5 oz) salami sliced
- Crackers & Bread: 100 g (3.5 oz) water crackers, 1 baguette sliced and toasted
- Fruits & Nuts: 1 cup seedless red grapes, 1/2 cup dried apricots, 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, 1/4 cup fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Cranberry Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens about 8–10 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Arrange Rosemary Base:
- On a large round platter or board, arrange the rosemary sprigs in a circular wreath shape as the base.
- Add Cranberry Sauce:
- Spoon small mounds of cranberry sauce at intervals around the wreath.
- Arrange Cheeses and Meats:
- Arrange cheeses, meats (if using), crackers, and bread slices in sections around the rosemary alternating for visual appeal.
- Add Fruits and Nuts:
- Tuck grapes, dried apricots, and nuts between the cheeses and meats to fill gaps and create a lush, full appearance.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with additional rosemary sprigs and serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest This platter always brings my family together during the holidays and sparks great conversations as everyone picks their favorite bites.
Notes
Serve with a crisp white wine or sparkling cider. For extra holiday flair, use pomegranate seeds for garnish.
Required Tools
Large round platter or cheese board, small saucepan (if making cranberry sauce), sharp knife, cheese knives or spreaders.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese), tree nuts (pecans/walnuts), and gluten (crackers/bread). May contain sulfites (dried fruits cured meats). Always check labels for allergens if uncertain.
Save to Pinterest This cranberry wreath platter is a stunning and delicious way to welcome the holiday season.
Common Questions
- → How do I make the cranberry sauce?
Simmer fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and zest over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until the berries burst and sauce thickens. Let cool before serving.
- → Can I prepare this platter in advance?
Yes, cranberry sauce can be made ahead and chilled. Assemble the platter shortly before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
- → What cheeses pair well with the cranberry sauce?
Brie, sharp white cheddar, and creamy goat cheese offer a balanced mix of flavors that complement the tartness of the cranberry sauce.
- → How can I make a vegetarian-friendly platter?
Simply omit the prosciutto and salami, then increase cheese portions or add roasted vegetables for variety.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Fresh rosemary sprigs arranged in a circular wreath shape and a scattering of pomegranate seeds add festive color and aroma.
- → What beverages pair well with this platter?
Crisp white wine or sparkling cider complement the combination of tangy sauce, creamy cheeses, and savory meats beautifully.