How to Put Together a Fall Grazing Board

Despite the fact that it’s bit for Iowa to get the memo that it’s fall, I’m finally starting to change out my summer closet for fall. Goodbye flip flops, cutoffs, and tanks. Hello boots, cozy socks, and cable knits. But my closet isn’t the only place I’m turning over a new leaf for the season. My grazing boards are getting a fresh look for fall, too.

I love me a grazing board. It’s artful, it’s delicious, and it’s easy to change up based on the time of year or occasion. This cozy fall grazing board will add a touch of seasonal magic to your table. Here’s the blueprint to creating your own at home:

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1. Start with the Stars of the Season: Apples, Pears, and Pumpkins

These three fall staples will be the stars of your grazing board, bringing a combination of sweet, tart, and savory notes.

• Pears: Try ripe Bartlett or Bosc pears. Their soft, juicy texture pairs beautifully with savory cheeses and salty nuts. Slice them thinly or quarter them for easy snacking.
• Apples: Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are great choices. Honeycrisp adds a sweet, juicy crunch, while Granny Smith brings a refreshing tartness. Slice them into wedges, and leave the skin on for added color and texture.
• Pumpkins: Mini pumpkins make for beautiful decorations on the board, but you can also use pumpkin in edible ways! Roast pumpkin slices with olive oil, salt, and herbs for a savory bite, or incorporate pumpkin-flavored items like pumpkin hummus or spiced pumpkin seeds.
• Bonus: FIGS! If you’ve never had a fresh fig, now is the time! They’ve got this jammy texture and honeyed sweetness that’s to die for. I love them paired with goat cheese and a drizzle of honey. (And I’ll also eat them for breakfast with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, honey, and nuts. Yum yum yum.)

2. Choose Seasonal Cheeses

No grazing board is complete without cheese, and autumn is the perfect time to indulge in rich, creamy varieties. Consider including:

• Brie or Camembert: Their creamy textures make a wonderful complement to fruit. Try brie topped with roasted grapes for an unexpected combination.
• Sharp Cheddar: The sharpness of an aged cheddar balances well with tart apples and it’s delicious with pumpkin butter, too. I love Prairie Breeze, a white cheddar from Milton Creamery in Milton, Iowa that has a touch of sweetness. So good.
• Blue Cheese: If you’re looking for something bold, blue cheese is where it’s at. Pair it with pears, walnuts, and hot honey for a salty-sweet-hot bite.

3. Incorporate Crunchy, Savory Elements

Think about combining different textures and flavors. To balance the sweetness of the fruit and the richness of the cheese, add a few of the following:

• Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds are fab for fall. You can roast them with a bit of maple syrup or spices for an extra touch of fall flavor (plus, they’ll make your house smell incredible).
• Crackers and Bread: Choose a mix of crunchy seeded crackers and soft, rustic breads. You can also toast up some baguette slices so guests can make their own crostini with all the board’s elements.
• Cured Meats: For some added savory flavor, include a selection of cured meats like prosciutto or salami. Prosciutto, in particular, pairs perfectly with sweet pears and apples.

4. Add Fall Condiments

Every board needs a condiment or two. They’re like that special little touch that brings everything together. Some ideas include:

• Honey: A small dish of honey is a must, especially for drizzling over cheese and fruit. You can also try hot honey (I love Mike’s) for an unexpected touch of heat.
• Apple Butter or Pumpkin Butter: Rich, spreadable apple or pumpkin butters add an extra layer of seasonal sweetness. Love them paired with sharp cheddar.
• Fig Jam: My favorite addition to any board. It’s got a deep, earthy sweetness and is delicious with lots of cheeses. (Pro tip: you can often find a jar for like $4 at T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, or Homegoods.)

5. Garnish with Seasonal Flair

Your fall grazing board should be as visually stunning as it is delicious. For a rustic, seasonal look, add garnishes like:

• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary sprigs or thyme branches not only look lovely, they also add a fragrant, earthy aroma to the board.
• Mini Pumpkins and Gourds: Use small pumpkins, gourds, or colorful squash as decorative elements. They’ll add height, texture, and a true autumn vibe.
• Edible Flowers: Scatter a few edible flowers or seasonal blossoms to bring a touch of the outside in.

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Putting It All Together

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to assemble! Just remember that in the case of grazing boards, more is more. You want to fill every space. It’s all about abundance! Start by placing your larger items (like cheese wedges, bowls of condiments, or mini pumpkins) as focal points. You can also use small cake stands to add height and dimension to your display. Next, arrange the fruit slices and roasted pumpkin around the board in flowing patterns. Fill in all the gaps with crackers, nuts, and cured meats, and finish with your garnishes.

Remember, there’s no wrong way to build your board. Get creative and have fun!