How to make a Dessert Board (Dessert Charcuterie)
Create a stunning dessert board packed with cookies, candies, fruits, and dips that's perfect for any celebration or cozy night in!
Equipment
- Large Serving Board
- Small bowls
- Serving utensils
- Paring Knife
- Decorative Elements
Ingredients
Board and Base Ingredients
- 1 large wooden board or slate platter for displaying dessert selections
Cookies
- 2 batches cookies such as chocolate chip and sugar cookies, baked and cooled
Candies
- 2 types candies e.g., dark chocolate truffles and gummy candies
Dip
- 1 bowl dip such as chocolate ganache or creamy peanut butter dip
Fruit
- assorted fresh seasonal fruits e.g., strawberries, apple slices, grapes, washed and sliced
Nuts or Trail Mix
- 1 cup candy nuts or sweet trail mix to sprinkle over the board
Instructions
How to make a Dessert Board (Dessert Charcuterie)
- Prepare your ingredients by baking two batches of cookies, such as classic chocolate chip and lemon cookies. Let them cool completely. Wash and slice fresh fruits for easy grabbing.
- Choose a large serving board or platter that is sturdy and large enough to hold all your dessert items.
- Arrange the cookies on the board first, grouping similar ones together or alternating types for visual interest.
- Add your chosen candies next, placing them in small bowls to keep the board organized and colorful.
- Position the dip in a bowl on one end of the board, making it easily accessible for guests to enjoy with fruits and cookies.
- Scatter fresh fruits around the board, mixing colors and textures like strawberries, grapes, and apple slices for vibrancy.
- Sprinkle candy nuts or sweet trail mix over the board to add crunch and fill empty spaces.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, edible flowers, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for a final touch of elegance.
Notes
- Prepare cookies and dip a day ahead, but add fresh fruits just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Customize your dessert board with gluten-free or sugar-free options to accommodate dietary needs.
- Use small bowls to organize candies and dips, keeping the board neat and visually appealing.
- Avoid overcrowding the board; allow space between items for a balanced presentation.
- Store leftover cookies in airtight containers at room temperature and fruits in the refrigerator for best freshness.