Creating the perfect après ski cheese board is an effortless way to elevate your post-slope gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a cozy chalet get-together or simply unwinding after a long day on the mountain, a well-crafted cheese board sets the scene for fun. Light the fire, pour some wine and enjoy your friends.
The best boards are a mix of rich, creamy cheeses, savory accompaniments, and a few seasonal touches, you can easily curate a spread that pairs beautifully with your favorite après ski drinks. Here’s how to assemble a delicious and visually stunning cheese board that will impress your guests.
5 tips for a great cheese platter:
- Make sure you have cheeses from the four different categories: aged, firm, soft and blue
- Offer a wide selection of breads that vary in taste and firmness to compliment the cheese
- Make sure you have at least one familiar cheese (think cheddar) for the non-adventurous type
- Separate! Use different knifes for each variant of cheese and make sure to keep strong smelling cheeses (brie, munster) in their own area, away from other cheeses
- Make sure not to serve your cheese platter cold, as it dilutes the flavor, which means taking them out of the fridge an hour before serving.
The Right Accessories
Set Yourself Up for Success with the Right Tools and Accessories
- Bamboo Charcuterie Boards + Platter – This cheese tray comes with utensils, and bowls. Get it on Amazon here. ($29.99)
- Juvale 6 Pack Mini Slate Charcuterie Boards Set with Chalk – This is a fun way to educated your guests about lesser-known cheese. Get it on Amazon here. ($22.99)
- Cheese Knives – Set of 6 pieces. Get it on Amazon here. ($19.99)
- Ski Moms Aprés Ski Cocktail book — 56 ideas for what to serve your guests with their cheese. ($19.95). Get it at the Ski Moms Shop here.
- Swiss Fondue Set – in case you want warm cheese, try this 11-piece, copper set. Get it on Amazon here. ($99.95). Get it on Amazon here.
- Emmi Swiss Fondue – 14 oz. Just heat and serve. Get it on Amazon here. ($12.49) Get it on Amazon here.
- Embroidered Ski Cocktail Napkins ($19.99). Get them on West Elm here.
Elevate Your Cheese Board
Adding unexpected dips and spreads to a cheese board can create unique flavor pairings that surprise and delight your guests. Here are some creative options:
- Whipped Honey Ricotta – Light and creamy with a touch of sweetness, this pairs beautifully with sharp or salty cheeses.
- Fig and Balsamic Chutney – A rich, tangy spread that complements aged cheeses like Manchego or Parmesan.
- Spicy Calabrian Chili Jam – A sweet-heat combination that enhances mild cheeses like Brie or fresh mozzarella.
- Roasted Garlic and White Bean Purée – A smooth, savory spread that adds depth to any cheese selection.
- Savory Tomato Jam – A slow-cooked jam with hints of vinegar and spice, great for pairing with blue cheese or Gruyère.
- Olive and Almond Tapenade – A briny, nutty spread that enhances the flavors of soft cheeses like Camembert.
- Blackberry and Thyme Compote – A lightly sweet and aromatic option that pairs beautifully with bloomy rind cheeses.
These unexpected additions will take your cheese board beyond the ordinary, making it a true après ski indulgence.
One final note, if you really want to create a picture perfect cheese board, sprinkle in delicate edible flowers like pansies or nasturtiums for a pop of color, or tuck in sprigs of rosemary and thyme for a rustic, alpine-inspired touch.
