10 Cheeses Perfect for a Christmas Cheese Board
With so many cheeses to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start when making up a perfect Christmas cheese board. Fear not, cheese lovers! In this blog post, we’ll be breaking down 10 of the best cheeses to include on your Christmas cheese board.
Brie
Brie is a classic soft cheese that is perfect for any cheese board. Its creamy texture and mild flavour make it a crowd-pleaser. Brie pairs well with crackers that won’t overpower the delicate flavour of the brie, such as water crackers or baguette slices. Want to add a touch of sweetness? Think fig jam, honey, or grapes.
For a savoury option, top your brie with sundried tomatoes or roasted garlic. And for a refreshing twist, pair your brie with green apple slices. With these pairing tips, you’ll have your guests raving about your cheese board all night long!
Gouda
Gouda is a semi-hard cheese from the Netherlands with a nutty flavour. It pairs well with sweeter items like figs and honey. Gouda can go well with a variety of crackers, but there are a few standouts that really bring out its bold flavour.
For a classic combination, try pairing your gouda cheese with some buttery, flaky crackers or some hearty wheat crackers for an earthy contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try some zesty, herb-infused crackers or some sweet and salty multigrain crackers for a surprising pop of flavour.
Roquefort
Roquefort is a classic blue cheese made from sheep milk with a rich, tangy flavour that pairs beautifully with various crackers. There are endless options for pairing crackers with Roquefort, but some standouts include water crackers, wheat thins, and sliced baguettes.
The key to finding the right cracker for your Roquefort is to choose a neutral, buttery cracker that won’t overpower the cheese’s strong flavour. And don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings; roasted grapes or honey drizzled over the cheese can add a delightful sweetness contrasting with the cheese’s pungent taste. It also goes well with a glass of red wine.
Comte
When it comes to pairing crackers with comte, there are a few tips that can take your snacking experience from good to great. First, consider the texture of the crackers. A crisp, light cracker made with wheat or rice flour is an excellent choice as it won’t overpower the subtle flavours of the comte. But if you prefer a heartier, whole-grain cracker, look for ones with a nutty or herbaceous flavour to complement the cheese.
Next, think about the accompaniments. A drizzle of honey, a dollop of fruit jam, or even a slice of prosciutto can enhance the sweetness or saltiness of the cheese. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations until you find your perfect pairing.
Cheddar
If there’s one cheese that we can all agree on, it’s cheddar. Whether it’s sharp, mild, or somewhere in between, this cheese is a staple in households everywhere. But as great as cheddar is, it’s even better paired with the right cracker. So what cracker should you choose?
First, consider the texture. A flaky, buttery cracker like a water cracker or a buttery cracker can contrast the crunchy cracker and the creamy cheese. If you want to add some depth of flavour, try a wheat cracker or a nutty cracker like a sesame seed cracker.
For those who love a little spice, a black pepper cracker or a sriracha-flavoured cracker can kick your cheddar. No matter what cracker you choose, remember one thing – when pairing with cheddar, it’s hard to go wrong.
Smoked Gouda
Smoked gouda is a delicious variation of gouda cheese infused with smoky flavours. This delicious cheese boasts a unique smoky flavour that the right cracker can perfectly complement. But how do you choose the perfect one? Fear not, my friend. Try a buttery, crisp water cracker or a sturdy multigrain option for added texture. And if you’re feeling adventurous, pair it up with a sweet and savoury fig spread for the ultimate combination of flavours.
Manchego
Manchego is a semi-hard cheese from Spain with a nutty flavour. It pairs well with figs, honey, and charcuterie. Try pairing your manchego with black pepper crackers for something with a bit of heat. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little bit sweeter, opt for a honey-wheat cracker instead.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not pair your manchego with a savoury garlic or herb cracker? Whatever you choose, savour your manchego’s smooth, nutty flavour while enjoying the crispy crunch of your chosen crackers!
Camembert
Camembert is a soft cheese from Normandy with a mild, buttery flavour. It pairs well with crackers and fruits. When it comes to wine, a medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir or a crisp, dry white will work wonderfully. As for crackers, try opting for a classic water cracker or a slightly sweet cracker like a rosemary focaccia. I also love thinly sliced apples or pears on the side or even a dollop of fig jam for sweetness.
Boursin
Boursin is a soft, spreadable cheese from France that comes in a variety of flavours. It pairs well with many crackers and vegetables.
Boursin cheese is one of the most versatile and delicious spreads out there. But what’s the perfect cracker to pair with such a sensational flavour? Try rosemary or olive oil crackers for a classic and foolproof combination – their subtle flavours will complement Boursin’s creamy texture. Feeling more adventurous? Opt for cracked pepper or garlic crackers to bring out the punch in the cheese. And if you’re feeling indulgent, pair Boursin with pitta chips or baguette slices for a truly satisfying crunch.
Goat’s Cheese
Goat’s cheese is a soft cheese that has a tangy flavour. It pairs well with honey, jams, and fruits.
When pairing crackers with delicious goat’s cheese, remember a few tips. First of all, consider the texture and flavour of the cheese itself. A soft, creamy goat’s cheese goes beautifully with crispy, crunchy crackers, while a harder, more flavorful cheese can handle something a little heartier.
You might also think about contrasting flavours – a sweet cracker can balance out the cheese’s tanginess, while a savoury cracker can complement its earthy notes.
Summary
There you have it: 10 cheeses perfect for a Christmas cheese board. Whether you prefer soft, hard, or blue cheeses, there’s something on this list for everyone. Pair your cheeses with crackers, fruits, charcuterie, and other snacks that complement their flavour. Happy Christmas, and enjoy your delicious cheese board!