Save A festive, visually stunning arrangement of sweet treats and themed snacks, perfect for holidays or game nights. This customizable dessert board brings together a variety of flavors, textures, and colors for a memorable sharing experience.
I first put together a dessert board for my family's game night, and it quickly became the highlight of our get-togethers. Everyone loved picking their favorites and discovering new treats.
Ingredients
- Cookies & Baked Treats: 12 holiday or themed sugar cookies, 8 brownie bites or mini cupcakes, 12 chocolate-dipped pretzel rods
- Chocolates & Candies: 1 cup assorted chocolates (truffles, wrapped candies), 1 cup holiday or team-colored M&Ms or similar candy-coated chocolates
- Fresh Fruits: 1 cup strawberries (halved), 1 cup seedless grapes, 1 cup apple slices (tossed with lemon juice to prevent browning)
- Dips & Spreads: 1 cup chocolate fondue or hazelnut spread, 1 cup marshmallow fluff or vanilla yogurt dip
- Themed Snacks & Extras: 1 cup popcorn (drizzled with white chocolate or colored sprinkles), 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup festive sprinkles or edible glitter (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Board:
- Choose a large wooden board, platter, or tray as your base.
- Place Bowls for Dips:
- Set out bowls or ramekins on the board for dips, spreads, and loose candies.
- Arrange Baked Treats:
- Organize cookies, brownie bites, and cupcakes in small groups around the board.
- Add Chocolates & Candies:
- Fill empty spaces with chocolates, candies, and themed treats.
- Arrange Fruits:
- Fan out fresh fruits in colorful sections for visual appeal.
- Finish with Extras:
- Add popcorn, marshmallows, and extra garnishes to fill any gaps.
- Garnish the Board:
- Sprinkle edible glitter or festive sprinkles over the board for a finishing touch.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, providing small tongs, spoons, and napkins for guests.
Save Building a dessert board is a fun project with kids or loved ones, and it always starts conversations. Last holiday, my little cousin delighted in adding extra sprinkles and arranging the fruit just so.
Required Tools
Large serving board or tray, small bowls or ramekins, spoons or tongs for serving, small plates and napkins
Additional Customization Tips
Swap in gluten-free or vegan treats as needed. Add nuts, dried fruits, or cheese slices for variety if no allergies.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or sparkling wine for a festive adult touch. Use colorful napkins to match your theme.
Save This dessert board is sure to be the centerpiece of your party. Have fun mixing and matching snacks for any occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I choose the best board for displaying treats?
A large wooden board, tray, or platter works well to showcase assorted sweets and snacks in an organized and appealing manner.
- → What fruits are ideal for these boards?
Strawberries, seedless grapes, and apple slices add vibrant color and fresh flavor. Use fruit that's easy to grab and holds up well.
- → How can I add festive flair to the presentation?
Sprinkle edible glitter, festive sprinkles, and include themed candies or colored popcorn for a lively, seasonal effect.
- → What dipping sauces are recommended?
Chocolate fondue, hazelnut spread, marshmallow fluff, and vanilla yogurt dip all complement sweets and fresh fruit beautifully.
- → Can these boards be customized for dietary needs?
Swap in gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free options and always check ingredient labels for potential allergens when selecting treats.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Pack leftover cookies, candies, and fruit in airtight containers; keep dips refrigerated for freshness.