How to Curate the Perfect Christmastime Cheese Board

Nothing says festive indulgence quite like a beautifully curated cheese board at Christmas. 

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, throwing a party, or simply enjoying a cosy evening with loved ones, a well-balanced cheese board can be both a show-stopping centrepiece and a crowd-pleaser. 

Here’s how to put together the perfect selection this festive season.

1. Choose a Wide Variety of Cheeses

A successful cheese board is all about balance — flavour, texture, and style. Aim for a mix of the following:

Soft and creamy: Brie, Camembert, or a British Tunworth.

Hard and aged: Cheddar (go for a farmhouse Somerset or Cornish variety), Comté, or Manchego.

Blue: Stilton is the classic Christmas choice, but Roquefort or Gorgonzola are also rich options.

Goat’s or sheep’s milk: A log of chèvre or a Spanish Idiazabal adds tang and variety.

Something a little different: Try a smoked cheese, truffle-infused brie, or even a festive cranberry Wensleydale for a seasonal touch.

2. Think About Pairings

A cheese board is as much about the accompaniments as the cheese itself. Provide a range of flavours to complement your selection:

Crackers and bread: Offer a mix of textures — oatcakes, crispbreads, seeded crackers, and slices of baguette.

Fruit: Fresh figs, grapes, pears, and apples work beautifully. For festive flair, add dried cranberries, apricots, or dates.

Chutneys and jams: A spiced apple chutney, red onion marmalade, or fig jam can bring out the richness of strong cheeses.

Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, and candied almonds add crunch and warmth.

Charcuterie: For a heartier board, include slices of prosciutto, salami, or chorizo.

3. Add a Festive Touch

Make your cheese board feel special for the season:

Use rosemary sprigs or holly (non-toxic, decorative only) as garnish.

Serve with a glass of port, mulled wine, or Champagne.

Cut cheeses into wedges or festive shapes using cookie cutters for fun presentation.

4. Presentation Matters

Arrange your board with style:

Place cheeses evenly around the board and fill in with accompaniments.

Create height by stacking crackers or using small bowls for chutneys and nuts.

Don’t overcrowd — leave space so each element can shine.

Always serve cheeses at room temperature for the best flavour.

5. Serving Sizes

Plan for around 70–100g of cheese per person if it’s part of a larger meal, or 150–200g per person if the cheese board is the main event.

Final Cheese Thoughts

Curating a Christmas cheese board is about more than just food — it’s about creating a warm, indulgent moment for your guests. With the right balance of cheeses, thoughtful pairings, and a touch of festive presentation, you’ll have a centrepiece that delights both the eyes and the palate.

Next, how to arrange a vegan cheeseboard.

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