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.
When I made my first themed dessert board for a holiday party, guests were instantly drawn to the colorful presentation. Everyone loved picking their favorites and tasting different combinations—it turned dessert into an activity!
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
- Choose Your Base:
- Select a large wooden board, platter, or tray.
- Add Bowls:
- Place bowls or ramekins for dips, spreads, and loose candies.
- Arrange Baked Treats:
- Group cookies, brownie bites, and cupcakes on the board.
- Fill With Sweets:
- Add chocolates, candies, and themed snacks in empty spaces.
- Feature Fresh Fruits:
- Fan out strawberries, grapes, and apples for color.
- Add Extras:
- Fill gaps with popcorn, marshmallows, and garnishes.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle edible glitter or festive sprinkles over the board.
- Serve:
- Offer tongs, spoons, and napkins for easy sharing.
Save Making this board is always a hit with my family. Everyone gets involved choosing snacks and arranging treats together, making it a special shared moment before the party begins.
Customization Ideas
Mix and match themes by swapping in seasonal treats, candies, or colors for holidays like Christmas, Halloween, or Valentines. For sports or game night events, choose team-colored snacks and decorations for extra fun.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your dessert board with hot chocolate, coffee, or sparkling wine for adults. Set out small plates and napkins for easy sharing, and consider placing the board at the center of your table for a conversation-starting display.
Tool Checklist
Have a large board or tray, small bowls or ramekins, and serving utensils like tongs or spoons on hand. Disposable napkins and plates make cleanup quick and simple for any size crowd.
Save Arrange your dessert board just before guests arrive for the freshest look and best texture. Enjoy the fun, festive atmosphere it creates for every celebration!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I choose a serving board size?
Select a board or tray large enough for your group. For 8–10 guests, use a platter at least 16–18 inches wide.
- → What fruits work best on themed boards?
Strawberries, grapes, and apple slices make colorful, easy-to-eat additions. Keep the selection seasonal for freshness.
- → Can I make this vegetarian or allergy-friendly?
Yes, swap in vegan or gluten-free treats and check all ingredient labels. Add dried fruit or nuts if suitable for guests.
- → How far ahead can I prepare the platter?
Arrange most dry treats in advance. Add fruits and dips just before serving to keep the board fresh and visually appealing.
- → What drinks pair well with dessert boards?
Hot chocolate, coffee, and sparkling wine complement sweet platters. Offer non-alcoholic options for all ages.