Appetizers & Starters > Cheese-Based Starters > Cheese Platters > Cheese and Fruit Platter

Elegant Cheese and Fruit Platter with Balsamic Glaze

Impress your guests with this visually stunning and flavorful cheese and fruit platter. This recipe balances creamy cheeses with sweet and tangy fruits, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sophistication.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Servings
8-10
Ingredients
  • 8 oz Brie Cheese
  • 8 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • 8 oz Gouda Cheese
  • 1 lb Red Grapes
  • 1 lb Green Grapes
  • 1 pint Strawberries
  • 1 pint Blueberries
  • 1 pint Blackberries
  • 1 large Apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 large Pear (Bosc or Anjou)
  • 1/2 cup Walnuts
  • 1/2 cup Pecans
  • 2 tbsp Balsamic Glaze
  • 1 box Crackers (assorted)

Cheese Selection

Choose a variety of cheeses with different textures and flavors. A good combination includes a soft cheese like Brie, a semi-hard cheese like Gouda, and a hard cheese like Sharp Cheddar. Cut the cheeses into bite-sized pieces or wedges for easy serving.

Fruit Preparation

Wash and dry all fruits thoroughly. Slice the apples and pears into thin wedges. Consider dipping them in lemon juice to prevent browning. Arrange the grapes, berries, and sliced fruits in separate piles on the platter.

Nut Addition

Scatter walnuts and pecans strategically around the platter to add crunch and visual appeal. You can also lightly toast the nuts for enhanced flavor.

Platter Assembly

Arrange the cheeses, fruits, and nuts artfully on a large platter or wooden board. Aim for a visually appealing arrangement with contrasting colors and textures. Fill in any gaps with small bunches of grapes or berries.

Balsamic Glaze Drizzle

Lightly drizzle balsamic glaze over the brie and strawberries for a touch of sweetness and acidity. Be careful not to overdo it, as a little goes a long way.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheese and fruit platter with an assortment of crackers. Offer a variety of crackers, such as water crackers, whole-wheat crackers, and flavored crackers, to complement the different cheeses and fruits.

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FAQ

  • Can I prepare the cheese and fruit platter in advance?

    Yes, you can prepare the platter a few hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the balsamic glaze just before serving to prevent the fruit from becoming soggy.
  • What other fruits and cheeses can I use?

    Feel free to customize the platter with your favorite fruits and cheeses. Other great options include cantaloupe, honeydew melon, figs, goat cheese, and Swiss cheese.
  • How do I store leftover cheese and fruit?

    Wrap leftover cheese tightly in plastic wrap or beeswax wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Store leftover fruit separately in an airtight container. It's best to consume leftovers within a day or two for optimal freshness.