Name: Thanksgiving Dessert Charcuterie Board
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 wheel brie cheese 8 slices cheddar cheese 8 slices gouda cheese 12 mini mozzarella balls 1 cup green grapes 1 cup red grapes 1 cup fresh blackberries 1 cup fresh raspberries 8 dried dates 6 dried figs 6 caramel or chocolate-dipped dates 1 cup candied pecans 1 cup candied walnuts 1 cup assorted crackers 1 cup mini pretzels 6 pumpkin cookies or spiced wafers 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons fruit preserves 1 mini pumpkin (decorative) 1 handful edible flowers and fresh herbs

Bring a little extra wow to your Thanksgiving table this year with a Thanksgiving Dessert Charcuterie Board that’s just as delightful to look at as it is to nibble on. Overflowing with autumnal color, sweet treats, cheeses, fruits, and festive flair, this board is perfect for grazing after the big feast or serving as a centerpiece at your holiday gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or a large family celebration, this board makes dessert easy, interactive, and customizable for everyone. With options ranging from caramel-dipped dates and crunchy nuts to brie, honeycomb, and crisp grapes, there’s something for every palate. Add mini pumpkins and edible flowers, and you’ve got a board that captures the cozy beauty of the season.

What Kind of Ingredients Should I Use for a Dessert Charcuterie Board?

Creating a balanced and beautiful dessert board is all about variety. Choose ingredients that offer different textures, flavors, and visual appeal. Use a mix of fresh fruits, soft and hard cheeses, chocolates, crunchy elements like nuts or pretzels, and something creamy like a sweet dip or spread. Seasonal elements like dried figs, pumpkin-spiced cookies, or even mini pies make the board feel festive and intentional.

Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Dessert Charcuterie Board

Brie Wheel – Creamy and mild, this cheese is a classic pairing with fruit, honey, and nuts.

Cheddar & Gouda Slices – Offer sharp and smoky flavors that contrast beautifully with sweet elements.

Mozzarella Balls – Their mild, milky flavor is refreshing alongside rich items like candied nuts.

Grapes (Green & Red) – Crisp and juicy, grapes add freshness and color contrast.

Fresh Berries – Blackberries, raspberries, and more give tartness and vibrant appeal.

Dried Fruits (Dates, Figs) – Naturally sweet and chewy, they add warmth and richness.

Caramel or Chocolate Dipped Dates – A dessert-style bite that’s decadent and elegant.

Nuts (Pecans, Walnuts) – Toasted or candied, they add crunch and a nutty aroma.

Crackers & Pretzels – Great for scooping dips or balancing soft cheeses.

Pumpkin Cookies or Spiced Wafers – These seasonal favorites bring a festive spice.

Honey and Fruit Preserves – Adds sweetness and pairs perfectly with cheese.

Mini Pumpkin for Decor – Not edible but adds that unmistakable Thanksgiving charm.

Edible Flowers & Fresh Herbs – A finishing touch that makes the board look lush and complete.

How To Make the Thanksgiving Dessert Charcuterie Board

Step 1: Choose Your Board or Platter

Start with a large wooden board, marble slab, or even a festive tray. Make sure it’s food-safe and large enough to hold a variety of items.

Step 2: Place the Anchor Items

Begin by placing your largest and most eye-catching ingredients: the brie wheel, bowls of honey or preserves, and your decorative mini pumpkin. Space them out to create visual balance.

Step 3: Layer in the Cheeses and Fruits

Fan out sliced cheddar and gouda, then nestle mozzarella balls in between grapes and berries. Aim for clusters to make the board look abundant and lush.

Step 4: Fill in with Sweet and Crunchy Elements

Tuck in the caramel-dipped dates, dried fruits, and cookies around the cheeses and fruit. Add piles of candied nuts and pretzels in open spaces.

Step 5: Add Crackers and Dips

Position stacks of crackers and pretzels near the cheeses, and nestle in any spreads or creamy dips you love. Use small ramekins or jars to contain them neatly.

Step 6: Garnish and Decorate

Finish the board with sprigs of herbs, edible flowers, and any remaining small items to fill empty spots. This final touch ties everything together visually and seasonally.

How to Serve and Store Your Thanksgiving Dessert Charcuterie Board

This board is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. Let cheeses sit out for 15–20 minutes before serving to bring out their full flavor. If you’re prepping in advance, assemble the board a few hours ahead and refrigerate it covered with plastic wrap. Add delicate items like crackers, herbs, and flowers just before serving to keep them fresh.

To store leftovers, separate wet and dry items. Wrap cheeses and fruits in airtight containers and refrigerate. Store cookies, pretzels, and nuts in resealable bags or tins at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this charcuterie board ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble most of the board a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Just add crackers and delicate garnishes right before serving.

What if I want to make it nut-free?

You can swap the nuts for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, or skip them entirely. Use crunchy alternatives like granola clusters or chocolate bark.