A Fall Charcuterie Board is a beautiful, seasonal twist on the classic grazing platter, filled with rich flavors and cozy autumn vibes. It features a vibrant mix of cheeses, cured meats, seasonal fruits, nuts, crackers, and festive accents that make it perfect for entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This fall charcuterie board brings warmth and elegance to any gathering. It’s customizable, visually stunning, and packed with seasonal ingredients that celebrate autumn flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or creating a date-night snack, this board will impress guests and satisfy every craving—sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- A variety of cheeses (cheddar, brie, gouda, blue cheese, goat cheese)
- Cured meats (prosciutto, salami, soppressata)
- Seasonal fruits (apple slices, pear slices, figs, grapes, dried cranberries)
- Nuts (candied pecans, walnuts, almonds)
- Crackers and breadsticks
- Pumpkin butter or apple butter
- Honey or fig jam
- Dark chocolate pieces or chocolate-covered pretzels
- Fresh rosemary or sage for garnish
- Optional: mini pumpkins, cinnamon sticks for decoration
directions
- Start by placing small bowls or ramekins on your board for wet ingredients like jams, butters, or honey.
- Arrange your cheeses in different sections of the board. Pre-slice firm cheeses and leave a knife near soft cheeses.
- Fold or roll the cured meats and place them around the cheese selections.
- Add seasonal fruits in small piles or fan them out for a decorative touch.
- Fill in the gaps with nuts, crackers, and chocolate pieces.
- Add a few decorative touches like rosemary sprigs, cinnamon sticks, or mini pumpkins for a fall look.
- Serve immediately, or cover and chill until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
Serves about 6–8 people as an appetizer.
Prep time: 20–30 minutes
No cooking required.
Variations
- Add roasted squash or sweet potato slices for a warm element.
- Include spiced pumpkin seeds for crunch and fall flavor.
- Swap cheeses to include a truffle cheese or aged parmesan for a bold flavor profile.
- Use gluten-free crackers or seed crisps for dietary preferences.
- Make it sweet-focused with more dried fruits, caramels, and sweet dips for a dessert board.
storage/reheating
Charcuterie boards are best assembled fresh, but leftovers can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Do not reheat—serve leftovers chilled or bring to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What cheeses work best for a fall charcuterie board?
A mix of textures and flavors works best—include something soft (brie), sharp (cheddar), creamy (goat cheese), and bold (blue cheese or gouda).
Can I make this board ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to 2 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add crackers and garnishes just before serving.
What fruits are best for fall charcuterie?
Apples, pears, figs, grapes, and dried cranberries are perfect for autumn flavor and color.
How do I keep apple slices from browning?
Dip them in a solution of water and lemon juice to slow oxidation.
What meats go well with fall flavors?
Prosciutto, salami, and soppressata complement the sweetness of fall fruits and the richness of cheese.
Can I make a vegetarian version?
Absolutely—swap meats for more fruits, marinated vegetables, or roasted squash slices.
What spreads pair well with fall boards?
Pumpkin butter, apple butter, fig jam, and honey are all great choices for sweetness and warmth.
Should I include chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate pairs well with cheese and fruit and adds a touch of indulgence.
How big should the board be?
Use a large wooden cutting board, slate, or platter—about 12×18 inches for 6–8 people.
Can this be a full meal?
Yes, add hearty elements like roasted veggies, artisan bread, and hard-boiled eggs to make it more substantial.
Conclusion
A Fall Charcuterie Board is the perfect way to embrace the season’s flavors with style and ease. Whether you’re sharing it at a party or enjoying it at home, this cozy, festive spread captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Customize it to your taste, and watch it become the star of your fall table.
Print
Fall Charcuterie Board
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8 people
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Fall Charcuterie Board is the ultimate autumn appetizer, featuring a delicious mix of meats, cheeses, seasonal fruits, nuts, and sweet treats. With warm colors and cozy flavors, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or any fall celebration. Easy to assemble and guaranteed to impress your guests!
Ingredients
Cheeses (choose 3–4):
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Aged cheddar
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Brie or camembert
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Gouda (smoked or regular)
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Blue cheese or gorgonzola
Meats (choose 2–3):
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Prosciutto
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Salami
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Soppressata or peppered turkey slices
Fruits:
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Apple slices (tossed in lemon juice)
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Pear slices
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Red or green grapes
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Dried cranberries
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Dried apricots
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Figs or fig jam
Nuts & Crunch:
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Candied pecans or walnuts
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Roasted almonds
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Pumpkin seeds
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Multigrain crackers
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Sliced baguette or crostini
Extras:
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Honey or hot honey
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Whole grain mustard
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Dark chocolate squares or chocolate-covered almonds
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Mini pumpkins or fall leaves (for decoration)
Instructions
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Choose a large wooden board or platter as your base.
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Place cheeses around the board, spacing them out for visual balance.
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Fold or roll deli meats and arrange them between the cheeses.
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Fill in spaces with fresh and dried fruits.
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Add piles of nuts, seeds, and crackers throughout the board.
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Place small bowls or ramekins of honey, jam, and mustard.
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Finish with sweet elements like chocolate and decorative touches like mini pumpkins.
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Serve immediately or cover loosely and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
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Let cheeses sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
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Add warm elements like baked brie or apple butter if serving at home.
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Make it your own! Swap in seasonal favorites like cranberry goat cheese or maple pecans.