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Charcuterie boards are an easy way to please a hungry crowd — there are SO many ways to make a fun and delicious one by picking different nuts, fruits, chocolates, and more. I absolutely love them because they make a beautiful presentation when I’m welcoming my guests! All you need to take your event to the next level is your mix of sweet and savory ingredients and one of the best charcuterie boards to display them on.

Credit: Crate & Barrel

Everyone needs a good board for charcuterie that they can use again and again. I’m a huge fan of this wooden charcuterie board from Crate & Barrel because it has managed to outlast typical wear and tear, but there are TONS of different types out there in unique shapes and designs made from materials like marble, slate, bamboo, and many other types of wood.

When narrowing down my list of the best boards for holiday arrangements, veggie and fruit platters, sweet treats, themed boards, and more, I made sure to include different styles so everyone could find something they love!  

My Top Picks:

What’s in My Kitchen: Tondo Acacia Round Serving Board – $49.95 at Crate & Barrel

Best Wooden Charcuterie Board (Runner Up): Hearth and Hand Double Handle Wood Serve Board – $29.99 at Target

Best Marble Charcuterie Board: Boards by Bleu Monogram Marble Cheese Board – $49.99 on Amazon

Best Tiered Charcuterie Board: Toscana 3 Tiered Serving Ladder – $68.99 on Amazon

Best Versatile Charcuterie Board: Juvale 6 Pack Mini Slate Charcuterie Boards – $20.99 on Amazon

Best Unique Charcuterie Board: The Live Edge Olive Wood Charcuterie Board with Grey Resin – $74.99 on Amazon

Reviews of the Best Charcuterie Boards 

1. What’s in My Kitchen: Tondo Acacia Round Serving Board

Credit: Crate and Barrel

I’ve had the Acacia Round Serving Board from Crate & Barrel for about three years (and counting), and I STILL reach for it every time I want to make a charcuterie board! I love using this big board for hosting because I can fill it up with everything that I need for a large group. 

I own it in the classic acacia wood wash, which I absolutely love because it brings out the natural beauty of the wood. (Acacia wood is common for charcuterie boards because it’s dense and resists moisture, so it’s perfect for food!) However, depending on your kitchen decor, you can also choose from dark, white, and natural stains, too. 

My Tips: 

I always wash my wooden boards with warm water and soap and towel dry them before storage. Don’t throw them in the dishwasher, since they can get more easily damaged this way!

The Specs:

Dimensions: 17.75 x 23 x 0.63 inches

Weight: Not specified 

Material: Acacia wood

Shape: Round

The Pros:

Durable materials

Pretty enough to display when not in use

Large 

The Cons:

Shouldn’t be soaked in the sink 

Only available from one retailer

Buy the Tondo Acacia Round Serving Board:

2. Best Wood Charcuterie Board (Runner Up): Hearth and Hand with Magnolia Large Double Handle Wood Serve Board

Credit: Target

This acacia wood serving board from Target’s Hearth and Hand line is part of an exclusive Magnolia collaboration a-la Chip and Joanna Gaines! I love that the large size and double handles combine function with a rustic, farmhouse style, plus the price is extremely reasonable!

The size is even big enough for more robust creations, like my fall-inspired Turkey Charcuterie Board or this breakfast one with fruits, bagels, and more! You can pick from two stains (brown or natural), and having two handles makes me feel better when transporting a beautiful display from kitchen to table.

The Specs:

Dimensions: 15 x 27.25 inches

Weight: Not specified

Material: Acacia wood

Shape: Rectangle

The Pros:

Inexpensive

Durable material

Easy to carry

The Cons:

Larger size can be difficult to store

Buy the Hearth & Hand Double Handle Wood Serve Board:

3. Best Marble Charcuterie Board: Boards by Bleu Monogram Marble Cheese Board

Credit: Amazon

Monogrammed items are such a fun way to add custom style to your kitchen. This marble cheese board is personalized with the inlaid brass letter of your choosing and has sloped edges to prevent chipping, which means it should last the long term (a MUST in my book). 

Marble is a classic material for charcuterie boards because it’s great at maintaining a good temperature for meats and cheeses. It has the tendency to dull knives, though, so be sure to do all your cutting on a cutting board before laying things out. When guests have headed out, just wipe this board clean with a damp cloth before storing it.

If you’re on the hunt for a good gift to give a new homeowner or renter, this charcuterie board makes for the cutest present. You can’t beat the price for such a gorgeous item, and Boards by Bleu is an Amazon small business!

The Specs:

Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 0.5 inches

Weight: 4 pounds

Material: Marble

Shape: Square

The Pros:

Non-slip feet

Easy to clean

Personalized

Pretty design

The Cons:

Heavy for a smaller board

Buy the Boards by Bleu Monogram Marble Cheese Board:

4. Best Tiered Charcuterie Board: Toscana 3-Tiered Serving Ladder

Credit: Amazon

I like to have a few sizes and shapes of charcuterie boards on hand depending on how many people I’m hosting and what I’m making. This tiered ladder-style serving board is a great option because the unique design allows for a lot of flexibility. You can use the trays to create an extra large charcuterie spread with or without the stand, or you can place them in different spots for mini creations. 

I love making a traditional charcuterie board, but holiday boards are some of the most fun to make. Just check out my Christmas Dessert Charcuterie Board and my Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board recipes! I love supporting small businesses like Toscana, part of the Picnic Time brand! 

The Specs:

Dimensions: Small tray: 12 x 5.63 inches, Medium tray: 15 x 5.63 inches, Large tray: 18 x 5.63 inches, Stand: 18 x 8.4 x 14.75

Weight: 4 pounds

Material: Acacia wood

Shape: Rectangle (three levels)

The Pros:

Mix and match serving trays

Versatile tiered display

Can be condensed into mini-serving boards

The Cons:

The design may make it a little difficult for guests to get food

Handwash only 

Buy the Toscana 3-Tiered Serving Ladder:

5. Best Versatile Charcuterie Board: Juvale 6-Pack Mini Slate Charcuterie Boards

Credit: Amazon

This 6-pack of mini charcuterie boards is super versatile!I love that you can build individual boards or make one large display. Plus, this set comes with chalk so you can label the ingredients or add your guests’ names for custom boards (SO cute!). 

Each platter also has non-slip dots on the underside, so you don’t have to worry about them accidentally sliding off the table. Like marble, slate is also great for  maintaining the ideal temperature for meats and cheeses, but it’s also rough on knives, so save the cutting for wooden boards.

The Specs:

Dimensions: 6 x 8.7 x 0.4 inches

Weight: 6.3 pounds total

Material: Slate

Shape: Rectangle

The Pros:

Mix and match boards

Comes with chalk to customize

Non-slip bottom

The Cons:

Shouldn’t use knives on it 

Smaller size

Buy the Juvale 6-Pack Mini Slate Charcuterie Boards:

6. Best Unique Charcuterie Board: The Live Edge Olive Wood Charcuterie Board

Credit: Amazon

If aesthetics is what you’re after, this beautiful olive wood serving board is the way to go. It has a unique food-safe gray resin pattern that’s designed to be on display. The resin insert is hand-poured into the wood, and I LOVE that each board is one of a kind and made by a small business. And, if gray doesn’t match the hues in your dining space, you can also choose between blue, black, and yellow resin. 

The olive wood is eye-catching, but it’s also great for chopping and prepping meals because it’s extremely hard and dense. Even better, you can treat it with food-grade mineral oil to keep the board looking great and last the long term.

The Specs:

Dimensions: 16 x 9 x 0.75 inches

Weight: 3.58 pounds

Material: Olive wood

Shape: Rectangle

The Pros:

Hand-poured resin design is one-of-a-kind

Can be custom engraved by the artist of your choice

Can choose the resin color

The Cons:

 Requires some care for longevity

Buy The Live Edge Olive Wood Charcuterie Board:

Other Charcuterie Boards I’ve Researched

Williams Sonoma Marble Honeycomb Cheeseboard with Cheese Knife

If you’re looking for a unique marble charcuterie board, this one has a stylish etched honeycomb design with gold bee accents. I liked that it comes with a matching cheese knife, too. You can get a similarly sized marble board that is just as nice for a little less, though. The Williams Sonoma Marble Honeycomb Cheeseboard with Cheese Knife is available at Williams Sonoma for $59.95.

Creative Co-Op Modern Round Wood Charcuterie Board With Handle

This round charcuterie board is similar to the one in my kitchen from Crate & Barrel, but this option is made with suar wood and is slightly smaller. For the size and price, you can find other wooden charcuterie boards that are larger and a better value, plus, there aren’t a ton of reviews to go off of. The Creative Co-Op Modern Round Wood Charcuterie Board With Handle is available at Wayfair for $52.22.

YANGQIHOME Bamboo Serving Platter

This bamboo platter is very lightweight at just  1 pound, so it’s super easy to transport even when it’s loaded up with charcuterie. Bamboo can last for a really long time as long as it’s cared for correctly. This is a great pick when you’re on a budget, but the design is pretty plain and it doesn’t have as many ratings as other picks on my list. The YANGQIHOME Bamboo Serving Platter is available on Amazon for $18.99.

Pottery Barn Handcrafted Acacia Wood Slab Cheese and Charcuterie Board

I love the natural shape of this acacia wood board. Plus, it has legs, so it’s easy to pick up and put down. It’s a statement piece, but weighing in at more than 13 pounds, it’s definitely heavy. With charcuterie, it would be even heavier! The Pottery Barn Handcrafted Acacia Wood Slab Cheese and Charcuterie Board with Pedestal is available at Pottery Barn for $99.

Why You Can Trust Me

Hi, I’m Alyssa Rivers, the foodie behind The Recipe Critic! I launched my blog in 2012 as a place to share my passion for cooking. I love trying new things and testing them out with my family. They can be my toughest critics, but they enjoy cooking with me and helping create delicious recipes to share!

Credit: The Recipe Critic

I make all kinds of unique charcuterie boards, from healthy veggie boards to sweet, breakfast charcuterie boards and everything in between. I absolutely love them, and even make different holiday charcuterie boards, too! If it can be bite-sized and served on a cheese board, I’ve done it. These boards are so easy to customize which is what makes them so fun, and having a good serving board is a great place to start!

What to Know About Charcuterie Boards

Credit: The Recipe Critic

What to Consider Before Buying a Charcuterie Board

There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for the best charcuterie board. 

Size: Consider the number of people you’re feeding. A larger board has more room for ingredients, but smaller boards can be fun for mini themed ones. If you’re like me, you might host groups of different sizes and will end up collecting a few charcuterie boards in a variety of sizes over time. And don’t forget to look at how much it weighs —a heavy board will just get even heavier when you load it up!

Material: Wood charcuterie boards are the most popular and can be made from acacia, olive wood, bamboo, and more. Marble and slate are nice because of their thermal capabilities and resistance to warping and cracking. Other materials like ceramic and metal are less common, but still great because they’re resistant to bacteria.

Features: Charcuterie boards may come with handles for carrying, feet to elevate the board, non-slip grips on the bottom, matching knife sets, and other fun decorative elements. Some might have a lip to keep ingredients contained or an open edge. You might even find cheese board sets that include a glass dome to keep cheeses covered! Ultimately, the features come down to personal preference, so consider the things you’d like prior to making a purchase.

How Much Does a Charcuterie Board Cost?

Charcuterie boards can range anywhere from $20 to $350 or more. Size, material, and presentation style can impact the cost of your charcuterie board. For example, bamboo and slate tend to be more affordable, whereas marble and nicer woods like acacia, suar, and olive wood can be pricier. The larger the cheese board is, the more expensive it can be.

How to Clean a Charcuterie Board

Cleaning a charcuterie board is pretty easy. Most boards made of wood, bamboo, slate or marble can be wiped down with a damp cloth. I handwash mine with soap and warm water and completely towel dry them before storing. 

However, if you also use your wooden cheese board as a cutting board, scrub with a sponge or dish brush paying special attention to spots with knife marks and scratches, and finish with a rinse. Never submerge a wooden board because it can warp or crack.

Plain glass boards can generally go in the dishwasher. Regardless of the material type, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s guidance for cleaning instructions.

How to Make a Charcuterie Board 

Credit: The Recipe Critic

It’s SO  easy to learn how to make a charcuterie board! To make sure your board is complete, use the “3333 rule” as a guide to help you create a well-balanced and visually appealing board:

3 meats

3 cheeses

3 starches

3 sweets

Some of my favorite add-ons are crostini, honey, raspberry jam, smoked gouda, and prosciutto!

What’s the Best Meat for a Charcuterie Board?

Thin slices of meat work best for a charcuterie board because they’re easy to shape and place in a nice design. Plus, thin cuts are good so people can eat a few different types of meat without filling up on just one kind! 

Here are some good options.

Italian dry salami

Prosciutto

Calabrese salami

Genoa salami

Applewood smoked salami

Mortadella

What’s the Best Cheese for a Charcuterie Board?

It’s best to have a variety of cheeses on your charcuterie board to mix and match with different meats, crackers, or bread. I recommend starting with your favorites and going from there, but you can also include a variety of textures!

Hard cheese: asiago, parmesan, aged gouda

Firm cheese: colby jack, cheddar, manchego, gruyere

Soft cheese: mascarpone, burrata, brie, muenster cheese 

Crumbled cheese: blue cheese, feta, goat cheese

Prices were accurate at the time of publication. 

Juicy and succulent filet mignon is perfect for dinner or any special occasion! Tender steak is seasoned, seared, and basted with garlic herb butter. This is a steakhouse-quality recipe that is so easy to make at home!

At my house, a steak dinner is such a treat! It’s everyone’s favorite and always what they ask for on their birthdays and other special occasions. If your family is the same way, you have to try this super easy Juicy Air Fryer Steak, this delicious Skillet Salisbury Steak, and this divine Ribeye Steak.

What is Filet Mignon?

Filet mignon is a cut of meat taken from the smaller end of the tenderloin of a cow. Mignon is a French word that translates to mean, “cute”, “dainty”, and “tender.” Restaurants use the name to describe a smaller thicker cut of meat. It is so incredibly tender because it literally melts in your mouth! This filet mignon recipe is seared and flavored with the best of the best! Butter, whole garlic cloves, and fresh herbs.

I love steak and all that you can eat with it. You can pair it with so many sides like vegetables, salads, and bread, and it tastes SOO GOOD. Make this meal complete with mashed potatoes, this crisp green salad, and soft fluffy rolls! Your guests will thank you over and over again for the yumminess of this “steak house quality” dinner!

Ingredients Needed

Cooking filet mignon is simple and straightforward. This steak would also be delicious topped with my cowboy butter or this compound butter. Make this recipe your own! You can find the exact measurements below in the recipe card.

Olive Oil: Heat the olive oil in the skillet to help sear and brown the steaks.

Filet Mignon Steaks: I use 4, 6-ounce filets for this recipe.

Kosher Salt: Coarse salt is perfect for seasoning steak.

Cracked Black Pepper: I love the added texture and spice of cracked black pepper. You’ll always find me sprinkling on extra!

Dried Italian Seasonings: Adds great flavor and seasons the steak.

Butter: The butter melts and is brushed on the filets for great flavor!

Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs, but use any herbs you like.

Whole Garlic Cloves: Peel whole garlic cloves then throw them in the skillet.

Filet Mignon Recipe

This recipe takes the guesswork out of cooking filet mignon. It’s actually pretty simple to get a steakhouse-worthy result at home! Serve it for a weeknight dinner or for special occasions. Everyone will be impressed because this is the best filet mignon with the most amazing flavor!

Rest the Meat and Preheat the Oven: First, allow the meat to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking. Then, preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Heat the Oil in the Pan: In a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Make sure the skillet is oven-safe. Heat the oil until it’s just about to smoke, then add the steak.

Season the Steak: Season the steak with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings generously on both sides.

Sear the Steak on Both Sides: Add the seasoned steaks to the hot skillet and cook until seared and browned on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.

Add the Butter, Garlic, and Herbs: Add the butter, garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme sprigs.

Transfer the Skillet to the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook to your liking. Check the temperature of the steaks before placing them in the oven because they may be close to your desired doneness. The steaks will only cook in the oven for less than 5 minutes.

Baste the Steak With the Melted Herb Butter: Remove the steaks from the oven when it reaches your desired temperature then baste them with melted butter from the skillet.

Cover and Rest the Steaks: Last, cover the steaks with foil then allow them to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and enjoying!

Spritz cookies are buttery and delicious, made with a cookie press to create festive shapes! Perfect for adding to any holiday dessert spread.

If you love butter cookies… you’re in the right place. These spritz cookies are so delicious with the BEST rich and buttery flavor. Another great recipe to add to the list is this one for Scottish shortbread! Both are perfect for Christmas, Santa won’t be able to resist. (Unless they’re all eaten before he arrives. Guilty!)

What are Spritz Cookies?

A cousin to butter cookies, these delights get their name from the German word “spritzen,” which means “to squirt.” That’s exactly how they’re made: the dough gets pushed through a special press, creating all sorts of fun shapes, from wreaths to Christmas trees. You can even add a little food coloring to the dough to make them extra festive.

Let’s talk about these cookies, though. They’re like little bites of pure happiness. With just a hint of sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s somewhere between a classic sugar cookie and a buttery shortbread, they’re satisfying without being too heavy. And the best part? They’re a fun to make! Pressing the dough through the cookie press is like playing with Play-Doh, but with the delicious reward of fresh-baked treats. It’s an activity that’s fun for the whole family, and the endless shapes and designs make them perfect for any occasion. So gather your sprinkles and food coloring, preheat the oven, and get ready to spritz up some fun!

Ingredients Needed

The best thing about spritz cookies is that you only need basic ingredients to make them. You may need to pick up some sprinkles or food coloring, because decorating them is half the fun!

Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for easy mixing and a smooth dough. You can also use salted butter for your spritz cookies, just omit the added salt!

Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cookies spread slightly.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients!

Large Eggs: Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.

Vanilla Extract and Almond Extract: Add subtle flavor and depth to the Spritz cookies. Feel free to experiment with different extracts like lemon, hazelnut or peppermint!

All-Purpose Flour: Gives the cookie’s structure.

Sanding Sugar and Sprinkles: Add a festive touch. Use any kind you prefer!

Spritz Cookie Recipe

Spritz cookies can sometimes be a little finicky, so use these instructions to get them to turn out perfectly every time! Trust me though, they are SO worth it. Buttery, delicious, and festive! Everything you could want from a Christmas cookie!

Preheat Oven, Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and then place two cookie sheets in the freezer.

Butter Mixture: In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the butter, sugar, and salt. Beat with the paddle attachment until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.

Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vanilla, and almond and beat until well combined. You will likely need to scrape down the bowl two or three times to make sure everything is completely incorporated.

Mix in Flour: Add the flour in 2-3 additions, scraping down the bowl as needed, until the flour is completely incorporated.

Cookie Press: Assemble the cookie press with the desired disc. Fill the press with the dough. Place the press flat against one of the chilled baking sheets and press the cookie press for 1 click. Hold for 2-3 seconds before pulling away. If the cookie doesn’t stick to the baking sheet, you can use a small silicone spatula to carefully peel it away from the press and let it fall onto the baking sheet. They can be moved as needed, so long as you are very gentle with them to not ruin the shape.

Decorate and Bake: If desired, sprinkle with sanding sugar or sprinkles. Bake for 7-8 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

This is my go-to classic cheese ball! It’s deliciously cheesy with a mix of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onion and seasonings that gets shaped into a ball, then rolled in crunchy pecans. It’s packed with flavor and makes the best holiday appetizer!

Cheese balls are welcome at any party! Give this Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball, Jalapeño Bacon Cheese Ball, or even this Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball a try next!

Classic Cheese Ball

From game day to the holidays, it’s the season for appetizers! I love everything from dips to sliders, charcuterie boards and a good classic cheese ball! If you happen to be hosting a get together or party, this irresistible classic cheeseball made with cheddar cheese and pecans definitely deserves a spot on the menu!

They are great because they’re quick and easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time and everyone always loves them! There are many different varieties, but this classic recipe is a major favorite. It’s simple, no fancy ingredients or methods required but it always turns out so tasty. You just can’t stop at one bite! It’s that good!

Ingredients Needed

This cheese ball recipe is made up of just a handful of simple ingredients. I recommend getting good quality ingredients so the finished product will be amazing! You can find full measurements below in the recipe card.

Cream Cheese: You will need two blocks of cream cheese for this recipe. The full-fat cream cheese is best, as it is richer and more flavorful. Don’t forget to leave it out at room temperature for a few hours, so it has time to get soft.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Even though buying pre-shredded cheddar cheese is convenient, I prefer freshly grated as it will taste better.

Green Onion: Adds fresh flavor and color throughout the ball. You will want to make sure they are finely chopped.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Both seasonings add a nice savory flavor and work well with the other flavors in this recipe.

Dried Parsley: For color and a lovely herby taste.

Pecans: You’ll want these to be coarsely chopped, so they coat the outside of the cheese ball evenly and add a nutty crunch.

How to Make a Classic Cheese Ball

Just a few simple steps and a few minutes to make this tasty cheese ball recipe. I love this served alongside a nice sturdy cracker, like Wheat Thins or thick pita chips. It’s also great with fresh vegetables for dipping. Let it sit out at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving, so it’s softer and easier to dip or spread.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, add the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onion, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. 

Mix: Mix together until incorporated. I put mine in the mixer and used the paddle attachment. That made it so easy. Otherwise, mix in a bowl until smooth.

Roll: Roll into a ball and wrap in plastic. Chill for at least an hour or until firm.

Coat: Unroll the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll in the chopped pecans.

Serve: Serve classic cheese ball with crackers or veggies and enjoy!

Delicious Pistachio Crusted Salmon is a savory entree that is coated in a mix of garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice with a crunchy pistachio crust all baked to perfection. Ready in just 30 minutes!

Salmon is one of my family’s favorite seafood dishes. It can be prepared a variety of ways and is so quick and easy to make. If you love salmon like we do, you’ve got to try this Salmon Piccata, Creamy Tuscan Garlic Salmon, or this amazing Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa.

Pistachio Crusted Salmon Recipe

Pistachio crusted salmon is tender and flaky salmon covered in the most incredible garlic lemon sauce and crunchy pistachios. The flavor and crunchy texture is out of this world, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite! Plus, it’s super easy to make.

This meal is not only incredibly delicious with its buttery flavor, but it’s also packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. You get wonderful taste and nutrition in one bite! To complete this dinner, serve your pistachio salmon with lemon parmesan asparagus or a fresh green goddess salad and fluffy 1-hour rolls!

Ingredients Needed

This tasty sauce that coats the salmon is made with simple ingredients, and is a wonderful combination of sweet and savory. To find all of the exact ingredients, check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Salmon: I like using fresh salmon best because the texture turns out more soft and tender. You’ll need 4 filets, about 6 ounces each, for this recipe.

Salt & Pepper: To season the salmon with.

Garlic: The minced garlic adds delicious savory flavor.

Dijon Mustard: Gives the sauce a sharp, slightly spicy taste.

Honey: Balances the other savory and sharp flavors of the sauce with a hint of sweetness.

Lemon Juice: Fresh is always best!

Pistachios: Adds the perfect crunch and texture to complement the tender, flaky salmon. They also add a delicious nutty flavor.

How to Make Pistachio Crusted Salmon

Not only does this salmon recipe taste amazing, but it’s so quick and easy to make. You can be eating it in just about 30 minutes!

Prep: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and then line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prep the Filets: Rinse the filets, then pat them dry and season each one with salt and pepper. Then place the filets on the parchment lined baking sheet.

Make the Sauce: In a small bowl whisk together the garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Once the liquids are well combined, add the pistachios and mix well.

Bake: Spread the pistachio mixture onto each salmon filet, and then pat it on firmly. Bake the filets for 18-20 minutes on the middle rack. Salmon should be flakey and temp out to 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rest: Remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Serve: Enjoy the salmon with some lemon wedges!

It doesn’t get any easier than this homemade 2 ingredient fudge! Creamy and decadent fudge that only takes 5 minutes to make. Perfect for parties and gifting!

I love making and gifting fudge this time of year! It’s fun to switch up fudge flavors for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to also try my best fantasy fudge, this festive eggnog fudge, and my classic vanilla fudge. They’re all so creamy and smooth!

What is 2 Ingredient Fudge?

This 2 ingredient fudge is the easiest to make because it really has only 2 simple ingredients. Chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Any recipe that only has two ingredients is a winner in my book. It doesn’t require a thermometer and it is the the fastest and easiest fudge you’ll ever make.

I’m always looking for desserts to make that are easy and only require a few ingredients. A few of my favorite easy dessert recipes are these oreo balls, my no-bake cookies, or simple cheesecake stuffed strawberries.

Ingredients to Make Fudge

Only 2 ingredients are needed to make this indulgent treat. It’s hard to believe it’s that simple, but it is! That’s what makes this the easiest 2 ingredient fudge in the world.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: I prefer semi-sweet but use any flavor of chocolate chips you want.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: The key ingredient to making this fudge. It adds the sweetness and texture to the creamy fudge.

2 Ingredient Fudge Recipe

Combine the 2 fudge ingredients in a mixing bowl, heat in the microwave, then stir until the chocolate is melted. That’s all it takes! Follow my detailed instructions below on the recipe card. You’ll be enjoying this 2 ingredient fudge in no time!

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×5 inch bread pan with parchment paper and spray lightly with pan spray. You may use an 8×8 pan instead, but the fudge will not be as thick.

Melt and Combine the Chocolate Chips and Sweetened Condensed Milk: Add the chocolate chips and the sweetened condensed milk to a large microwave-safe mixing bowl. Heat in the microwave for about 3 minutes, using 45-second intervals at 50% power. Stir after each interval until the chocolate is completely melted. The mixture will be thick and begin to look matte when it is done.

Transfer to the Pan and Set the Fudge: Lastly, transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press over the top smoothing the fudge with a rubber spatula or an offset spatula. Cover and let sit for at least 2 hours, or until completely set and firm.

Cut the Fudge and Enjoy: Once set, use the parchment to lift the fudge from the pan then cut into squares.

Phyllo pastry and walnuts are layered together then baked until the pastry is deliciously flaky. A sweet honey syrup is poured over the top which soaks into the baklava and makes every bite heavenly.

If you love sweet, flaky dessert bars, also try these Dutch caramel apple pie bars, churro cheesecake bars, or sopapilla cheesecake bars. You’ll love them!

Where is Baklava From?

Baklava is one of the best desserts of all time! There is much debate about the origin of Baklava. Both Greece and Turkey claim to be the originators of the recipe. According to Wiki, the oldest known recipe that resembles baklava came from the Romans. You know that it’s a winning recipe if it’s remained popular for that many centuries!

It’s made with flaky layers of buttered phyllo pastry stuffed with walnuts. Honey syrup is poured over the top so that every bite is deliciously sweet. It’s moist and flavorful, and if you’re anything like me, you won’t be able to resist reaching for another piece.

Ingredient List

I love this recipe because it doesn’t have a long list of ingredients. Only a handful that create the most amazing flavor and texture! Exact measurements are in the recipe card below.

Walnuts: Add a nutty flavor and crunch.

Spices: Cinnamon and ground cloves are added for some warm, cozy flavor.

Salted Butter: Helps bind the phyllo dough and also adds richness.

Phyllo Dough: Thin, flaky pastry used to make baklava.

Honey Syrup:

Water: Dissolves the sugar.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the syrup.

Whole Cloves: Add a touch of sweetness and aroma.

Cinnamon Stick: Infuses the syrup with warm, inviting spice.

Honey: So the syrup is nice and sweet and has a wonderful sticky texture.

Orange Extract: Adds a zesty citrusy flavor.

Lemon Juice: Adds a touch of tartness, balancing the sweetness.

Baklava Recipe

I’ve broken up this recipe into 3 simple parts- preparing the phyllo pastry, assembling the baklava, and making the honey syrup to coat it with. It’s a lot easier to make than you’d think, and so worth it once you try a piece!

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 330 degrees Fahrenheit.

Nut Mixture: Place the walnuts, cinnamon, and cloves in a food processor and pulse until chopped.

Melt Butter: Melt the butter in a pan or microwave.

Cut Phyllo Pastry: Cut the phyllo pastry in half so that you have 2, 9-inch wide pieces

Assembly

Layer Dough: Brush the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish with the melted butter. Lay down two sheets of phyllo dough to cover the pan’s entire bottom and lightly brush the top with butter. Top with 2 more sheets of phyllo and brush with butter. Repeat this until you have 8 layers of phyllo dough in the bottom of the on.

Add Nut Mixture: Sprinkle 1/3 of the walnut mixture into the pan. Top with 2 sheets of phyllo dough and brush with butter. Add two more sheets of phyllo dough and brush with butter, making it 4 sheets total on top of the walnuts. Repeat this process once more so you have another layer of walnuts followed by 4 more sheets of phyllo dough and butter.

Repeat: Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 of the walnut mixture over the top of the phyllo dough. Top with 2 sheets of phyllo and brush with butter. Use up the remaining phyllo dough and butter until you run out of phyllo dough.

Cut: Cut the baklava three times down the long length so you have 4 equal sections. Then make cuts diagonally so you have diamond-shaped pieces.

Bake: Place the baking dish into the oven and bake uncovered for about an hour, or until it is puffed and very golden on the top. Close to the 50-60 minute range, keep a close eye on it so the top doesn’t get too dark.

Honey Syrup

Prepare Syrup: While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup. Heat the water, sugar, cloves, and cinnamon stick in a small pot over high heat just until the sugar is dissolved. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the honey, orange extract, and lemon juice. Set aside to cool.

Pour On Top: When the baklava has finished baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cool syrup over the top. Let it rest for at least two hours before serving.

This easy Christmas punch is delicious and so festive! It’s the perfect punch to serve at your next gathering. It’s for all ages, young and old!

A festive drink makes any gathering that much more special. Try this Root Beer, Pomegranate Lemonade, or Eggnog for some other fun options!

Non-Alcoholic Christmas Punch

The holidays and all of the parties are such a busy time that sometimes, I forget about any drinks at our gatherings! I am usually scrambling to put something together at the last minute so this punch is perfect! It’s quick and super easy to put together. Plus, it looks gorgeous and fancy when I’m done, so it’s a win-win!

Not only does this cranberry orange punch look great, but it tastes delicious too! You mix cranberry juice and orange juice together and to make it extra special you add in some sparkling soda for a fun fizz. Plus, it complements just about any food that you eat with it!

What’s In Cranberry Orange Punch?

It just takes a few ingredients to put this yummy Christmas punch together! See the recipe card below for exact measurements.

Orange Juice: Make this from concentrate or buy some ahead of time.

Cranberry Juice: This gives it a bit of a tangy flavor.

Lemon Lime Soda: I used Sprite for this recipe.

Orange Slices and Cranberries: These are optional, but they are a super easy way to make it look fancy!

Let’s Make Some Christmas Punch!

This will take you less than 5 minutes to make, but looks like a million bucks! Your family and friends will love it!

Combine, stir and garnish: In a large punch bowl add the orange juice and cranberry juice. Add soda if using. Give it a good stir and garnish with orange slices and cranberries.

Creamy Tuscan Parmesan Gnocchi has the most incredible creamy sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. This is an easy comforting meal packed with flavor that can be on the dinner table in less than 30 minutes!

If you love that delicious Tuscan flavor, here are some other great recipes to try! Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a quick and easy restaurant quality meal. And, if you’re a seafood fan, this Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp or this version with salmon should definitely be on your dinner list.

Creamy Tuscan Parmesan Gnocchi

Tuscan recipes like this Creamy Tuscan Parmesan Gnocchi are so flavorful, yet so easy to make! This dish only requires 9 ingredients, including the seasoning, and comes together in less than 30 minutes. The sauce with parmesan cheese, spinach and sun-dried tomatoes is out of this word, and tastes like something you’d order at a fancy Italian restaurant. The gnocchi is the refrigerated variety, found with other refrigerated pastas at the grocery store. It’s easy to cook and turns out pillowy soft and so cozy.

Tuscan Parmesan Gnocchi is a great meal to cook up on busy weeknights when you need something hassle-free in a hurry. We often enjoy this dish with a delicious salad and Italian bread twists or garlic bread. It’s a meal to impress, yet involves a no-fuss prep with crowd-pleasing results. Add this recipe to your dinner menu very soon!

Ingredients Needed

The ingredient list is very simple requiring easy to find ingredients that come together to make a vegetarian dinner that your family will love! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all of the exact measurements.

Gnocchi: Use refrigerated gnocchi for best results.

Olive Oil: For frying the gnocchi in the pan.

Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce rich and luscious. 

Chicken Broth: Adds liquid and flavor to the sauce to get the perfect consistency.

Parmesan Cheese: I recommend freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and consistency in your sauce.

Garlic Powder: Gives the dish a boost of delicious savory flavor.

Italian Seasoning: This homemade Italian seasoning is easy to make and will give your sauce incredible flavor. Feel free to use store-bought, if you’d like.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds a tart acidity to the sauce that is a great balance to the creaminess.

Spinach: Use freshly chopped spinach to add a pop of color and extra nutrients to the sauce.

How to Make Tuscan Parmesan Gnocchi

One of the best parts of this meal is that you can quickly and easily put together a drool-worthy dinner at home. It’s so easy, but looks and tastes gourmet. Here’s the simple process:

Fry the Gnocchi: In a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat add the olive oil. Add in the gnocchi and fry until golden for a few minutes until golden and crisp. Remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set aside.

Make Sauce: Returning to the same skillet, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese. Whisk over medium-high heat until it starts to thicken.

Add Vegetables: Add the spinach and sundried tomatoes and let it simmer until the spinach starts to wilt.

Combine: Add the fried gnocchi back to the pan with the sauce. Then gently toss to combine.

Festive eggnog cake is the perfect dessert to serve this holiday season! Make this moist eggnog-flavored cake bursting with delicious seasonal spices and layered with creamy eggnog buttercream!

Eggnog is the perfect holiday flavor that is delicious in so many desserts. You’ll have to try my eggnog fudge or this eggnog cheesecake. And of course, everyone needs a classic eggnog recipe to serve for the Christmas season. My recipe is non-alcoholic so the whole family can enjoy it!

Eggnog Cake

This festive eggnog cake is moist, fluffy, and full of eggnog flavor and spices. Even the buttercream frosting has eggnog in it! Eggnog-flavored desserts are one of our favorite ways to enjoy a holiday treat. It only comes around once a year, so it’s fun to use it in recipes like this delicious eggnog cake. It really turned out amazing! This dessert could not be more perfect for the holiday season! Every bite transports you into holiday heaven.

I’m a firm believer that good food brings people together. What is better than celebrating the holidays with the people and food that you love?! A few of my tried and true favorites are my honey glazed ham, this punch, and these fun Christmas cookies.

Ingredients Needed For Eggnog Cake

These ingredients are fairly simple! I especially love using eggnog in the cake recipe. It’s so festive! See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

Cake

Cake Flour: I use cake flour in this recipe for a light, fluffy structure. You can also use all-purpose flour, but keep in mind it will alter the crumb slightly.

Granulated Sugar: White sugar is a must to sweeten up your cake batter!

Light Brown Sugar: I love the molasses flavor the brown sugar adds.

Baking Powder: Makes the cake to rise and be fluffy.

Salt: Used to enhance overall flavor.

Ground Nutmeg and Cinnamon: The perfect combination of spices for this cake.

Eggnog: Grab some eggnog at the grocery store. Use it in this recipe then drink the rest of it later!

Vanilla Extract: Added for flavor! I suggest using pure vanilla extract if possible.

Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture to your cake and binds the ingredients together.

Large Egg Whites: I use just the egg whites and not the yolks.

Eggnog Buttercream

Unsalted Butter: Room temperature is best for making the buttercream.

Powdered Sugar: The sweetness to the buttercream frosting.

Ground Nutmeg: The perfect spice to pair with eggnog flavors.

Vanilla Extract: Added flavor and sweetness.

Rum Extract: The extract is optional and can be omitted, but it goes well with the eggnog flavors.

Salt: Just a dash of salt to balance out the sweet.

Eggnog Cake Recipe

I love to make special desserts specific to the season. We look forward to it once a year, and everyone gets excited. Master it just in time for the holidays and your guests will be so impressed!

Cake

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease 2, 8-inch round cake pans and set aside.

Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

Add the Wet Ingredients and Mix: Add the eggnog, vanilla, almond extract, and oil to the dry ingredients and beat with the paddle attachment of a stand mixer or a hand mixer just until fully combined.

Whip the Egg Whites and Fold Them Into the Batter: In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until medium-stiff peaks form. Fold into the batter until no streaks of egg whites remain.

Pour Into Prepared Pans: Separate the batter evenly into the two cake pans and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center of the cake springs back when pressed on.

Cool Cake Layers: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting. For easier frosting, wrap the cooled cake layers in plastic wrap and freeze for 4 hours or chill in the fridge overnight before assembling.

Eggnog Buttercream

Beat the Butter Until Creamy: Add the butter to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and beat until creamy. Alternatively, you can use a large mixing bowl and use a hand mixer to beat the butter until smooth and creamy.

Mix in the Powdered Sugar, Vanilla, Extract, and Salt: Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, rum extract, and salt. Mix until combined.

Frost the Cake Layers: Use immediately to frost the cooled cake layers for best results.