Save A festive, elegant dessert board inspired by the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight for luck. This vibrant platter combines fresh grapes with sweet treats, cheeses, and crunchy accompaniments for a delightful end to your New Years celebration.
This dessert board quickly became a highlight of our New Years celebrations, bringing color and flavor to the table while honoring a beloved tradition.
Ingredients
- Fruit: 96 seedless grapes (red, green, or mixed about 12 per person), 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries), 1 orange thinly sliced
- Cheeses: 200 g brie cheese, 150 g manchego cheese, 150 g blue cheese
- Sweet Treats: 150 g dark chocolate squares or truffles, 12 almond cookies or biscotti, 1/2 cup candied nuts (almonds or pecans), 1/2 cup honey or fruit preserves
- Crackers & Bread: 1 baguette sliced, 1 box assorted crackers
- Garnishes: Fresh mint sprigs, Edible flowers (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry the grapes and berries thoroughly. Slice the orange into thin rounds.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the grapes in small clusters or piles of 12 to represent each month of the New Year across the board.
- Step 3:
- Add the cheeses spacing them around the board for visual appeal.
- Step 4:
- Fill in gaps with berries, orange slices, chocolate, cookies, and candied nuts.
- Step 5:
- Place honey or preserves in a small bowl with a spoon.
- Step 6:
- Add baguette slices and crackers in stacks or fans around the edges.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with fresh mint sprigs and edible flowers if using.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately inviting guests to select their 12 grapes of fortune and enjoy the assortment.
Save Sharing this dessert board became a cherished New Years family moment full of laughter and tradition.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter, Small bowls for honey preserves, Serving knives for cheese, Spoons for honey preserves, Small tongs or forks optional
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese), nuts (candied nuts, almond cookies), gluten (bread, cookies, crackers), and possible traces of soy (chocolate). Double-check all labels for allergens and cross-contamination if serving guests with sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Calories 350, Total Fat 18 g, Carbohydrates 38 g, Protein 8 g per serving estimate
Save This Grapes of Fortune Dessert Board brings joy and luck to your celebration with minimal prep and maximum impact.
Recipe FAQ
- → What types of grapes are best for the board?
Seedless red, green, or mixed grapes work well, offering variety in flavor and color.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses for dietary preferences?
Yes, plant-based cheeses can be used to accommodate vegan or dairy-free needs.
- → How should I arrange the grapes on the board?
Arrange grapes in small clusters or piles of twelve, representing the months of the New Year.
- → What sweet treats complement the grapes and cheese?
Dark chocolate squares, almond cookies, and candied nuts provide a balanced sweet contrast.
- → Are there any suggested accompaniments to serve alongside?
Slices of fresh baguette and assorted crackers add a satisfying crunch and help balance flavors.
- → How can I garnish the board for a festive look?
Fresh mint sprigs and edible flowers add color and elegance to the presentation.