Charcuterie Tree Cone
Create a stunning Charcuterie Tree Cone with cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and olives. Perfect holiday appetizer that serves as a festive centerpiece for any gathering.
Equipment
- cutting board
- knife
- measuring cups
- small bowls
- serving platter
Ingredients
Base & Tools
- 1 12-inch Styrofoam cone, food-safe
- 150 wooden toothpicks approximately 150 to 200
Cheeses
- 1 16-ounce block sharp cheddar cheese cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 8-ounce package fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) small, drained
Cured Meats
- 4 ounces hard salami thinly sliced, folded into quarters
- 3 ounces prosciutto thinly sliced, rolled tightly
- 3 ounces pepperoni slices small
Fruits & Olives
- 1 cup green grapes washed and dried
- 1 cup red grapes washed and dried
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes washed and dried
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives drained
- 1/2 cup pitted green olives drained
Garnishes & Serving
- 1 bunch fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- 1 box assorted crackers for serving
Instructions
- Place the 12-inch Styrofoam cone onto a sturdy serving platter or a flat, stable surface. Arrange all your charcuterie ingredients into separate small bowls or containers for easy access after washing and drying any produce.
- Beginning at the bottom edge of the cone, insert a wooden toothpick into a 1/2-inch cheddar cheese cube and then firmly into the cone. Continue this process around the entire base with a mix of cheddar cubes and fresh mozzarella balls, placing them snugly against each other to completely cover the cone's surface without large gaps.
- Once the foundational cheese layer is established, start adding the folded hard salami and rolled prosciutto slices. Secure each piece by inserting a toothpick through the meat and into the cone, distributing them evenly among the cheeses to create a varied texture and color.
- Fill in the next section of the cone with the washed green and red grapes, cherry tomatoes, and both types of pitted olives. Use toothpicks to attach these items, working your way upward and ensuring the cone is becoming densely covered with a vibrant assortment.
- Add the small pepperoni slices, using toothpicks to secure them in any remaining small gaps or exposed areas of the Styrofoam cone. Continue to fill any visible spaces with smaller pieces of cheese, grapes, or olives to create a full, abundant "tree" effect.
- Tuck the fresh rosemary sprigs into various spots around the cone. The rosemary will resemble the needles of a Christmas tree, adding a festive touch and a fresh, aromatic scent to your display.
- Arrange the assorted crackers attractively around the base of the charcuterie cone on the serving platter. Take a moment to inspect the entire cone for any loose items or areas that need further filling, adjusting as necessary before serving immediately.
Notes
Add mozzarella or feta for a cheesy twist. Ensure the cone is stable before building.