Frosted Pine Cheese Board (Printable Version)

Festive cheese board with sugared rosemary, white cheddar, and almond clusters for winter gatherings.

# Components:

→ Cheeses

01 - 7 oz white cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded

→ Garnishes

02 - 12 fresh rosemary sprigs
03 - 2 tablespoons water
04 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, plus extra for dusting

→ Nuts

05 - 2 oz whole almonds, raw or lightly toasted

→ Crackers & Extras

06 - 12 to 16 assorted gluten-free crackers, optional
07 - 1 tablespoon honey, optional for drizzling

# Method Steps:

01 - Lightly moisten rosemary sprigs with water, roll in granulated sugar until coated, then set on parchment-lined tray to dry for 10 minutes.
02 - Arrange white cheddar cheese in soft mounds on a serving platter to simulate snowdrifts.
03 - Insert sugared rosemary sprigs upright among cheese mounds to resemble frosted pines.
04 - Cluster whole almonds around the cheese to mimic pinecones.
05 - Optionally, surround the arrangement with gluten-free crackers or drizzle honey over the display.
06 - Present immediately to enjoy the festive arrangement.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It looks like an edible winter landscape but takes just 20 minutes to assemble.
  • Everyone raves about the sugared rosemary—it's crispy, fragrant, and totally unexpected.
  • Gluten-free and vegetarian, so it works for almost any gathering without fuss.
02 -
  • Don't oversoak your rosemary sprigs or the water will make the sugar dissolve instead of crystallize—just a quick dampen is all you need.
  • If your rosemary is too soft or wilted, use fresh herb sprigs that have some stiffness; they'll stand proudly on your platter instead of drooping.
03 -
  • Toast your almonds lightly in a dry skillet for 3–4 minutes if you want them to taste richer and look more pinecone-like with deeper color.
  • Make the sugared rosemary sprigs up to 2 hours ahead and let them sit uncovered so they dry completely and stay crispy until service.
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