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 board has become my favorite way to celebrate New Years with family and friends, sharing good luck and delicious bites.
Ingredients
- 96 seedless grapes: red, green, or mixed about 12 per person
- 1 cup fresh berries: strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
- 1 orange: thinly sliced
- 200 g brie cheese:
- 150 g manchego cheese:
- 150 g blue cheese:
- 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:
- 1 baguette: sliced
- 1 box assorted crackers:
- 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 board has created joyful New Years memories with my family, bringing a touch of luck and sweetness to our celebrations.
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 estimated
Save 
This dessert board is a beautiful and meaningful centerpiece for your celebrations, sure to delight guests with every bite.
Your Questions Answered
- → How should I arrange the grapes on the board?
Arrange grapes in small clusters or piles of twelve, symbolizing each month of the New Year, for both tradition and visual appeal.
- → What types of cheeses work best for this board?
Soft brie, flavorful manchego, and tangy blue cheese make a balanced mix that complements the fruit and sweets.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary preferences?
Yes, plant-based cheeses and chocolates can be used for vegan options, and candied nuts can be swapped for chocolate-covered or dried fruits.
- → How do I keep the board fresh before serving?
Prepare and arrange ingredients shortly before serving, keeping fresh fruit refrigerated to maintain crispness and flavor.
- → What beverages pair well with this board?
Sparkling wine or non-alcoholic bubbly complement the sweet and savory flavors beautifully, enhancing the festive mood.