I love making gift baskets. There’s just something satisfying about throwing a bunch of cute things together to create a unique themed gift! We all know that gift-giving can be a challenge, so it’s great to have some fun gift basket ideas to use when needed. This gift set is perfect for literally anyone. Who doesn’t love condiments, wooden display boards, and cute serving utensils? The following is how to make an awesome charcuterie board gift.

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There are 6 elements to include when you’re creating your charcuterie board gift set:

  1. Mini utensils and little pinch bowls – These two sets from Amazon are absolutely adorable: Mini Utensil Set and Pinch Bowls
  2. Decorative elements (Gift basket grass, ribbons and bows, flowers, dried herbs)
  3. Condiments
  4. Non-perishable goodies
  5. Perishable goodies if you’re putting this together right before you plan on giving it.
  6. The board itself – This one from Amazon would work great: Bamboo Charcuterie Board
Things to include in a charcuterie board
Charcuterie Board Spreaders

Mini utensils and little pinch bowls are relatively inexpensive and are such a cute yet functional element to include in your gift set. Look for little bowls, tongs, cheese and dip spreaders, forks, and spoons.

When it comes to the decorative options for your board, the possibilities are endless! I found this super cute oven mitt (pictured below) at Target and just HAD to incorporate it. I also love the idea of including a little bundle of dried lavender, mint, or basil!

The recipients tastes will obviously dictate the types of condiments and other edible items you include. Think about the kinds of food you’ve seen them order in restaurants and the kinds of food they serve at their house and draw some conclusions about what they like. For example: if someone is ALWAYS adding hot sauce to their meals and serving up buffalo chicken dip at their house, make a point of adding a unique hot sauce to their gift! It’s also important to consider whether any perishable items will last long enough for the recipient to consume. You wouldn’t want to include fresh bread and cookies if they won’t be able to enjoy them within the first few days.

Here are a few ideas for edible items to include in your charcuterie board:

  • Honey
  • Balsamic glaze
  • Specialty mustards
  • Fancy nuts
  • Unique Dips
  • Tipsy cherries (my personal favorite)
  • Crackers
  • Nut Butters
  • Chocolate or yogurt covered anything (blueberries, raisins, pomegranate seeds, etc.)
  • Dried fruit
  • Hot Sauce
  • Anything from Hickory Farms
  • Fresh baked goodies
  • Fresh fruit
These tipsy cherries are a great addition to any charcuterie board

I typically try to stay away from the traditional meats and cheeses associated with charcuterie boards because I don’t want to worry about keeping it refrigerated.

The Board:

As far as the actual board goes, if you can’t find or just don’t want to spend the cash on a board that already says “charcuterie” on it, it’s super easy to make your own. Here are three options:

  1. Find a plain wooden tray (a breakfast or coffee table tray would work) and use a Cricut to create your own “charcuterie” applique.
  1. Get a fancy font alphabet stencil at Michaels (usually between $4 and $8) and use a fine-tip sharpie to draw “charcuterie” on a plain wooden tray.
  1. Make your own board from scratch! Pick up a piece of wood from Home Depot or Lowes and have them cut it for you. I recommend a length of 20-25 inches for optimal gift giving length. While you’re there, select a cute pair of handles from the drawer knobs/pulls section. You can leave your wood natural or stain it to a desired color. Attach the handles using a drill and screwdriver and then use either a Cricut or stencil to create your “charcuterie” design.

Important: For methods 2 and 3, be sure to seal your finished product with a food safe wood sealer. A good option for this is to mix one part melted pure beeswax pellets with 2 parts mineral oil for a hydrating and water-repelling seal. Just buff it into your board using a clean cloth and give it a day to dry.

Presentation and gift-wrapping:

Use tissue paper, basket filler, and/or bubble wrap to protect and stabilize the items on the board. You can even use a small piece of tape to help secure items. Once everything is stabilized, place the entire board in a large, clear, gift basket bag and secure with a ribbon or bow. Successful delivery will require some careful handing and finesse but it’s worth it!

There you go! Now you know how to make an awesome charcuterie board gift! I hope this guide was helpful and you have so much fun putting your gift together! Get creative and add some unconventional or surprising elements! Your recipient will love it.

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