Christmas Charcuterie Tree

Create a stunning holiday charcuterie tree packed with meats, cheeses, fruit, and festive greenery for an easy Christmas appetizer perfect for all your holiday parties and potlucks!

This charcuterie tree is just as much a fun holiday appetizer as it is a showstopping centerpiece for your table! Unlike my Christmas tree charcuterie board, this one stands tall for a an extra festive touch to present your guests with an assortment of meats and cheeses!

What I do for mine is simply a guide. You can take it and run, and use whatever your favorite meat and cheese selections are. No matter what, you’ll be bringing seasonal charm to your table, with these crowd-pleasing, salty, briny flavors. It’s definitely something you’re going to keep making every year.

All you need are some charcuterie ingredients, a floral craft cone, and a bit of extra space in your fridge, and you’re all set for stress-free entertaining!

Ingredients for Charcuterie Tree Tower

This section includes ingredient notes and substitution options. Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

• Salami – Any type you like – mild, hot, Genoa, German, etc.
• Assorted cheese cubes – Use your favorites—cheddar cheese, gouda, Colby Jack, smoked cheese, or mozzarella pearls..
• Mini cucumbers – Slice into 1/2″ rounds.
• Cherry tomatoes – Washed and dried.
• Grapes – Red, green, or both – washed and dried.
• Rosemary sprigs – Tuck in for that tree-like look. Parsley or thyme could be used as well.

Equipment

• Floral craft cone – We used a 12-inch tall cone. You can order a floral foam cone on Amazon or pick one up at Walmart or Michaels.
• Plastic wrap – for covering the cone with a food-safe surface before adding your food items.
• Toothpicks

How to Make a Christmas Tree Charcuterie Cone

This section shows you how to make the recipe with step-by-step photos and instructions. For the full printable recipe, see the recipe card below. 

Step 1: Wrap the styrofoam cone with a layer or two of plastic wrap.

Step 2: Skewer the cheese cubes. Start at the top and arrange a column of skewered cheese cubes all the way down to the bottom.

Step 3: Fold each slice of salami in half and then roll it up. Secure it with a toothpick and stick into the cone next to the column of cheese cubes.

Step 4: Next, skewer a column of tomatoes, grapes, and cucumbers. Repeat until you cover the entire cone.

Step 5: Finally, trim your rosemary sprigs into smaller pieces and tuck them in any empty spaces to fill in the gaps. Serve immediately.

Storage

This charcuterie Christmas tree is best made just before serving so everything stays fresh and visually appealing.

Make ahead: If you need to make it ahead, be sure to clear enough space in your fridge to store it. That includes not just the shelf, but also vertical space—you may need to adjust the height of your shelves to fit the tree.

Prep ahead: A great option is to prep your ingredients (slice cheese, wash produce, cut cucumbers) a day in advance and store them in separate containers. Then, assemble the tree just before serving. This also makes it easier to bring your tree to a party or event.

Leftovers: After serving, remove any remaining skewers from the foam cone and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Additions & Variations

• Swap the salami. Prosciutto, mortadella, pepperoni, or even sliced ham can be used.
• Add a tree topper. Use a cookie cutter to cut a cheese star for the top of the tree.
• Use different fruit. Green grapes, blackberries, green olives, black olives, etc.

More Holiday Appetizer Recipes

• Knorr Spinach Dip
• Rotel Dip with Cream Cheese
• Crockpot Little Smokies
• Holiday Triscuit Appetizers
• 3-Ingredient Crockpot Meatballs