Charcuterie board gift baskets are the perfect gift for all occasions. With the flexibility to create a theme for each board, you can tailor it to suit the recipient’s tastes. Alternatively, you can also keep it simple or let them enjoy the freedom of creating their own perfect board experience. At Maggie's Gift Baskets, we know charcuterie – Here is our guide to the perfect basket for you.
What Makes a Good Charcuterie Board Gift Basket?
It's all about presentation when it comes to a charcuterie board. A safe bet, and a great way to make it look top-notch, is to start with a wooden cutting board or specialty serving boards as a base. You can also add a personalized touch, such as a custom engraving, to heighten their experience. Follow up by adding some cheese knives, or a knife set for the meats, to add to the presentation and voila—you’ve set the foundation for a solid charcuterie board gift basket. As for everything else, this is the time to get creative.In this blog, we discuss our 5 favourite charcuterie board gift basket ideas. Let’s dive into it!
- Brie-lliant Charcuterie Board Gift Basket
Here's what we would include:
- Fresh Fruits: Fresh fruits pair well with cheese. Add whatever kinds of berries or citrus fruits you might wish. Oranges and raspberries are great in the mornings. Though not a charcuterie board gift basket, our Fruit Basket: Bountiful, is perfect for those who love fruit.
- Crackers: Bagel crisps, pretzel bites, and crackerbreads are all great ideas for this charcuterie basket.
- Spreads: Spicy jellies, honey, will all do wonders on this board.
- Meats: Add smoked salmon, thinly sliced prosciutto, and other light meats for a nice touch.
- Cheese: Brie cheese and cheddar add a light and creamy touch and are also perfect for brunch.
- Drinks: Mimosas and coffee are staple brunch drinks. Additionally, feel free to add some champagne and orange juice.
For a charcuterie board that is all about cheese check out our Decadent Cheese Board.
2. Sweet Tooth Charcuterie Board Gift Basket
We all know someone who can’t resist the sweet stuff! Our 100% Local Taste of YYC – Sweet Gift Basket is a customer favourite, filled with delicious snacks who prefer a sweeter touch. Though not including conventional cured meats or pâtés, sweet charcuterie board gift baskets are the ideal treat for anyone with a serious sweet tooth.Here's what we would include:
- Chocolates: Milk chocolate bark, chocolate covered almonds, and dark chocolate are the perfect starter.
- Cookies and Biscuits: Shortbread cookies give that sweet sensation, while balancing the board. And you cannot go wrong with some chocolate chip cookies.
- Fruits: Strawberries are the perfect pairing. And what goes better with strawberries than bananas or some apples to dip in the spreads?
- Spreads: Caramel dip goes well with cookies and fruits. Nutella is also a famously loved spread.
- Drinks: Hot chocolate makes the perfect winter gift, offering warmth and comfort. For an extra touch, consider pairing it with a sweet wine for a delightful combination.
3. The Classic Meat and Cheese Charcuterie Board Gift Basket
You cannot go wrong with a classic blend of meat and cheeses. If you happen to know what the recipient may enjoy, such as best meat options, selection of cheeses or wines, be sure to add them for a personalized touch.
As with our Gourmet Sweet and Savoury Gift Basket, here's what we would include:- Meat: A basic combination of prosciutto and salami will do just nicely.
- Cheese: Brie, goat cheese, and aged cheddar are always fan favourites, and cheese
- Wine: Depending on the types of cheeses you picked, there are wines that pair well. For more details, be sure to check out this guide
- Crackers: Don’t hold back on crackers. Mix and match a variety of types to find your favorites and enjoy the perfect pairing.
- Olives: Don’t forget to include veggies on your board! Olives, in particular, add a delicious variety to the flavor mix.
- Jellies: Homemade or not, people love jellies on charcuterie boards. Since this is the basic platter, choose whatever jelly may suit your recipients taste buds.
4. Tidal Treasures Charcuterie Board Gift Basket
The Tidal Treasures Charcuterie Gift Basket is a top choice for seafood lovers, especially when the catch of the season is at its freshest. Perfect for making the most of special occasions, this basket allows you to indulge in the finest flavors at just the right time.Here's what we would include:
- Seafood: Shrimp cocktails and crab cakes are famous hors d'oeuvres, and the perfect base for this tidal-themed board.
- Meats: A flavorful summer sausage can perfectly complement the light vibe of any spread.
- Sauces: Some garlic butter, regular butter, or some garlic aioli would complement all the flavours.
- Accompaniments: Potatoes go well with this mixture of foods. Lemon is also a nice way to enhance the taste.
- Caviar: A bit of caviar on the side will really add a touch of elegance to this seafood board. This guide explains how to serve caviar
- Drinks: Dry white wine typically pairs well with seafood. Grab your favourite chardonnay.
5. Game Day Grub Charcuterie Board Gift Basket
Add some excitement by bringing game day classics to the gathering! Since most game days are potlucks, why not bring the ultimate potluck to the party?Here's what we would include:
- Classics: Nachos, chicken wings, sliders, and fries as a solid base.
- Dips: Guacamole, spinach dip, and buffalo chicken dip are staple items.
- Accompaniments: Pumpernickel, peanuts, and pretzels will go perfectly with this board.
- Sweets: Who doesn't love a caramel popcorn or chocolate covered nut mix while watching the game?
- Drinks: What’s a game day without a few beers? Our Beer Bucket: Classic Brews is a favourite among sports fans
Any of these boards can be customized to better fit the circumstances. Whether it be an anniversary gift, birthday gift, all things food lovers, etc. There is a way to make this perfect for anyone.
It can take a couple tries, but once considering all the right things to add in, this unique gift will really be a thoughtful gesture loved by anyone. When making your own charcuterie board, take into account preferences and themes.
Conclusion: Charcuterie Board Gifts
This guide is for anyone looking to create something special—whether it’s for a foodie friend, a potluck, or a cozy night in. There are endless ways to customize charcuterie baskets and make the perfect gift for a special occasion, and Maggie’s Gift Baskets is here to help you.
By considering personal preferences, you can create an experience that leaves everyone wanting more! You could even host a night where everyone brings their own unique board—the possibilities are endless. Who knew these platters of cheese and meats could become such a delightful gift for all occasions?
If it feels overwhelming, Maggie’s Gift Baskets has you covered. We specialize in charcuterie and gift baskets with gourmet treats, offering a wide selection of cheeses, meats, and other tasty treats. Let us take the hassle out of the process and help you create the perfect basket.