Cranberry White Cheddar Tree

A festive and visually stunning cheese and fruit appetizer shaped like a holiday tree, made with creamy white cheddar, tangy dried cranberries, and fresh herbs.

This appetizer is always a hit at our holiday gatherings and brings a festive touch to the table.

Ingredients

• Cheese: 400 g (14 oz) white cheddar cheese, cut into 2 cm (¾ inch) cubes
• Fruits & Nuts: 100 g (¾ cup) dried cranberries
• Fruits & Nuts: 50 g (½ cup) roasted, unsalted pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped
• Fruits & Nuts: 1 small bunch of fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
• Accompaniments: Crackers or crostini, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

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Step 1:

Arrange the white cheddar cubes on a large platter or board in the shape of a tree, starting with a wide base and tapering to a point at the top.

Step 2:

Sprinkle dried cranberries evenly over and between the cheese cubes.

Step 3:

Scatter roasted pistachios over the tree for extra color and crunch.

Step 4:

Tuck small sprigs of fresh rosemary between the cheese cubes to mimic pine branches and add aroma.

Step 5:

If desired, place a small star-shaped piece of cheddar or a cracker at the top as a tree topper.

Step 6:

Serve immediately with crackers or crostini on the side.

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This recipe creates joyful family moments with its festive presentation and easy sharing format.

Notes

For extra color, add pomegranate arils or diced dried apricots. Substitute pistachios with toasted pecans or walnuts as desired. Use a sharp white cheddar for best flavor or swap in manchego or gouda for variation. Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Required Tools

Large serving platter or board, sharp knife, small bowl (for nuts or garnish, optional)

Nutritional Information

Calories: 210 per serving, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 11 g, Protein: 10 g

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Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

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This appetizer is quick to assemble and impresses guests with minimal effort.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I substitute the pistachios with other nuts?

Yes, toasted pecans or walnuts work well as alternatives and add a different crunch and flavor profile.

→ What cheese can I use besides white cheddar?

Manchego or gouda are great substitutes, offering similar creaminess and complementary flavors.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture for up to two days.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, but for best presentation, assemble just before serving to keep the textures crisp and fresh.

→ What drinks pair well with this dish?

Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the sharpness and sweetness beautifully.