📖 Instructions

1. Gather Your Ingredients: Before you start, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. This includes your cheeses, crackers, fruits, nuts, and any other accompaniments. This saves time and prevents mid-assembly grocery runs! A friend of mine once forgot the crackers and had to run to the store halfway through assembling the board!
2. Prepare the Brie: Place the wheel of brie on a small plate or in a small bowl. Score the top of the brie in a crosshatch pattern with a sharp knife. This helps the topping adhere better and allows the brie to bake evenly.
3. Make the Cranberry-Walnut Topping: In a small bowl, combine the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed. I sometimes add a little orange zest for extra flavor, if I'm feeling adventurous. This add a touch of sunshine to the recipe.
4. Top the Brie: Spoon the cranberry-walnut mixture evenly over the top of the brie. Gently press the topping down so it adheres to the cheese. Be generous with the topping, ensuring every bite has a burst of flavor.
5. Bake the Brie (Optional): If you prefer a warm, gooey brie, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the brie is softened and the topping is slightly melted. This step is totally optional, but it elevates the cheese to another level of deliciousness. Keep a close eye on it to prevent it from melting too much!
6. Assemble the Charcuterie Board: Arrange the cheeses, crackers, fruits, and nuts artfully on the serving board. Start with the larger items, like the brie and cheese blocks, and then fill in the gaps with smaller items. The goal is to create a visually appealing and balanced arrangement. I like to group similar items together for a cohesive look.
7. Add Color and Texture: Incorporate fruits like grapes, apple slices, and berries for a pop of color and freshness. Add a variety of crackers with different shapes and textures for interest. Don't forget some greenery, like rosemary sprigs or edible flowers, for an extra touch of elegance.
8. Include Dips and Spreads: If desired, add small bowls of honey, fig jam, or other complementary dips and spreads to your board. These provide extra flavor and texture options for your guests. I am always torn between fig jam and honey. I love them equally!
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once your charcuterie board is assembled to your liking, it's time to serve and enjoy! Encourage your guests to sample a little bit of everything and experiment with different flavor combinations. I promise, they will love it. One time my friend did not try the brie because she did not know what it was and she later regretted it!