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This charming holiday centerpiece combines classic deli meats and creamy cheeses, artfully arranged to look like a festive Christmas tree. It’s the perfect appetizer for a cozy family gathering or a lively holiday party—simple to assemble, yet delightfully impressive!
Ingredients
- 1 pound sliced pepperoni or salami
- 8 ounces cubed Havarti cheese
- 8 ounces cubed cheddar cheese
- 1 cup your favorite olives (green or black), pitted
- 1 small bunch fresh rosemary or parsley sprigs
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Toothpicks
- Star-shaped cookie cutter (optional)
Instructions
Begin by gathering all your meats, cheeses, and olives. Trim the ends of the pepperoni or salami if needed, so they’re neat and ready to be skewered. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and Dijon mustard to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
Using toothpicks, begin building layers of flavor and color. Thread a meat slice, a cube of Havarti, and a cube of cheddar onto a pick; alternate with olives. Feel free to add or subtract ingredients based on your household’s preferences (some folks love more cheese, others can’t resist extra pepperoni!).
Next, arrange the skewers on a large platter or cutting board in the shape of a triangle—your “tree”—starting with a wide base and working up to a narrow peak. Tuck sprigs of rosemary or parsley around the skewers to resemble festive greenery. If you have a star-shaped cookie cutter, use it on a cheese slice to create a bright topper and place it right above the tip of your “tree.” Finally, drizzle the maple-mustard glaze lightly over the entire arrangement for that irresistible finishing touch.
This savory showpiece can be prepped ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. Be sure to cover gently with plastic wrap so it stays fresh.
The real beauty of this appetizer is how easy it is to adapt. Swap in turkey pepperoni or spicy soppressata, switch out the cheeses for Gouda or mozzarella, or use different olives for extra variety. The Merry Maple-Glazed Meat and Cheese Christmas Tree is a crowd-pleaser—whether you’re hosting a formal sit-down dinner or a relaxed friends-and-family buffet. It’s ideal for those looking for a delicious and visually appealing way to serve protein-packed snacks, and offers a festive, fun option for all holiday gatherings.
