Pin It 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
This platter has been a holiday favorite in my family for years bringing everyone together with its colorful and tasty presentation
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
- Place Cranberry Sauce:
- Spoon small mounds of cranberry sauce at intervals around the wreath
- Arrange Components:
- 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
Pin It This platter always brings out smiles and warm moments as friends and family gather around to share and enjoy
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp white wine or sparkling cider to complement the tart and creamy flavors of the platter
Storage Tips
Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days Enjoy at room temperature for best flavor before serving
Customization Ideas
Swap breads or cheeses to suit your personal taste or dietary needs Add pomegranate seeds for extra holiday flair and color
Pin It This colorful platter is sure to be the centerpiece of your holiday celebrations making entertaining effortless and delicious
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the cranberry sauce for the wreath?
Simmer fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and zest until the berries burst and the sauce thickens, then cool completely before arranging.
- → Can I serve this platter as vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sliced meats and add extra cheeses or roasted vegetables for a flavorful vegetarian option.
- → What cheeses pair well in this wreath platter?
Brie, sharp white cheddar, and goat cheese offer a balanced variety of creamy and tangy flavors that complement the cranberry sauce beautifully.
- → How should I arrange the platter for the best presentation?
Use rosemary sprigs to form a wreath base on a round platter, then alternate mounds of cranberry sauce, cheese sections, meats, and fruits for a lush and festive look.
- → What accompaniments work best with this platter?
Water crackers, toasted baguette slices, fresh grapes, dried apricots, and toasted pecans or walnuts add variety and texture to the arrangement.