A Christmas table instantly feels more welcoming when there’s a little edible architecture involved, and this charcuterie chalet delivers exactly that kind of charm. It is built from breadsticks, crackers, cheese, and salami, and is a great conversation starter that can be served during any holiday gatherings. Ideal as a party appetizer, buffet highlight, or Christmas Eve nibble, this chalet is guaranteed to draw guests in.
What Is a Charcuterie Chalet?
A charcuterie chalet is a festive twist on traditional charcuterie boards, inspired by gingerbread houses and Alpine winter cabins. Instead of sweets, it’s constructed using cured meats, cheeses, crackers, and breadsticks, which are all held together with soft cheese. Think of it as a three-dimensional charcuterie board that celebrates both creativity and good snacking.
Pro Tips for the Best Charcuterie Chalet
- Measure before cutting! Matching breadstick lengths to the wall width keeps the house neat and stable
- Start from the bottom when decorating. Whether it’s walls or roof tiles, layering upward creates a cleaner look.
- Press gently, not firmly, as you want decorations to stick without cracking crackers or snapping breadsticks.
- Decorate just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent moisture from softening the crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of salami?
If salami isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with other thin, flexible cured meats such as prosciutto, bresaola, or coppa. The key is choosing something that bends easily so it can be layered neatly on the roof. Just avoid meats that are too thick or dry, as they won’t adhere properly.
Is the cardboard house safe to use?
The cardboard house is safe as long as it is completely wrapped in parchment paper before decorating. The parchment acts as a protective barrier, ensuring no food comes into direct contact with the cardboard. This method is commonly used for edible displays and works well for both safety and cleanliness.
What can I serve alongside it?
A charcuterie chalet works best when paired with complementary snack elements arranged around it. Consider adding extra crackers, nuts, olives, dried fruit, or small bowls of honey or mustard for dipping. These extras encourage guests to interact with the display and customize their bites.
How to Store a Charcuterie Chalet
If you have leftovers, gently disassemble the chalet. Store meats, cheeses, and breadsticks separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Crackers should be kept at room temperature to stay crisp.
Ingredients
How to Make a Charcuterie Chalet
Wrap the cardboard Christmas house completely with parchment paper. Measure the width of the house walls and cut the breadsticks to match.
Wrap the cardboard Christmas house completely with parchment paper. Measure the width of the house walls and cut the breadsticks to match.
Generously spread cream cheese over the parchment paper and place the breadsticks.
Generously spread cream cheese over the parchment paper and place the breadsticks.
Use crackers to form a door on one side of the house and windows on the other sides. Gently press them into the cream cheese, so they stick.
Use crackers to form a door on one side of the house and windows on the other sides. Gently press them into the cream cheese, so they stick.
Cut rectangular shapes from salami slices to mimic bricks and tile any remaining roof spaces. Shape a small rosemary sprig into a wreath and attach it above the door, and decorate the yard with a cream cheese path. Add trees with rosemary and sprinkle grated cheese over the house to resemble freshly fallen snow.
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Cut the cheese into small squares and place them on the windows, using cream cheese as glue.
Starting from the bottom edge of each roof panel, tile the roof with salami slices. Spread a little more cream cheese along the top ridge of the roof. Add a short piece of breadstick to create a chimney, securing it with cream cheese.
Cut rectangular shapes from salami slices to mimic bricks and tile any remaining roof spaces. Shape a small rosemary sprig into a wreath and attach it above the door, and decorate the yard with a cream cheese path. Add trees with rosemary and sprinkle grated cheese over the house to resemble freshly fallen snow.
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