READ ALSO: The most iconic dishes featuring cheese from all around the world →

How to choose the best cheeses for fall recipes

Selecting the right cheese can make all the difference in a recipe, especially when it comes to fall dishes that rely on cheese for their rich, comforting flavours.

Here are some tips to help you choose the best cheeses for each of these cheesy fall recipes:

1. Consider the melting qualities

For dishes like gratins, mac and cheese or potato soup, you’ll want cheeses that melt smoothly and evenly. Cheddar, Gruyère and Taleggio are excellent choices because they have a high moisture content, making them ideal for creating creamy, gooey textures. Avoid crumbly or hard cheeses like Feta or Parmesan for these dishes, as they don’t melt well.

2. Balance flavours

Cheese should complement the other ingredients in your recipe. For example, the nutty, slightly salty taste of Gruyère pairs beautifully with the sweet butternut squash in a gratin, while an Aged Cheddar contrasts well with the mild sweetness of pumpkin in mac and cheese. When using bolder cheeses like Brie or goat cheese, keep the other flavours in the dish more subtle to let the cheese shine.

3. Go for seasonal and fresh

When possible, choose cheeses that are at their seasonal peak. Soft cheeses like Brie and Goat Cheese are ideal for autumn, as they are rich and creamy, perfect for pairing with figs, apples or roasted vegetables. Hard cheeses like Cheddar and Gruyère are also great for fall, as their deep flavours match the richness of fall vegetables and hearty grains.

4. Buy high-quality cheese

Where possible, opt for high-quality, artisanal cheeses rather than processed varieties. Fresh, natural cheeses tend to have better flavour and texture, and they’ll make a noticeable difference in your recipes. Look for cheeses from reputable cheesemakers or local farmers’ markets to ensure you’re getting the best quality.

By paying attention to these factors, you can ensure that you elevate your cheesy fall recipes, making them even more enjoyable.

My top 9 cheesy fall recipes

Now that we’ve got the ground rules for cheese selection out of the way, let’s take a look at how you can incorporate them into some great cheesy fall recipes.

1. Butternut Squash and Gruyère Gratin

This creamy, cheesy butternut squash gratin is a perfect side dish for fall. It pairs the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the nutty, slightly salty flavour of Gruyère cheese, which melts beautifully into a bubbly, golden topping.

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and sliced
• 200g Gruyère cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 200ml heavy cream
• 100ml milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Layer the butternut squash slices in a greased baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine cream, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the cream mixture over the squash and top with grated Gruyère.
5. Bake for 45 minutes until the squash is tender and the cheese is golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve.

2. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin isn’t just for desserts—it adds a velvety texture to mac and cheese, giving this classic comfort dish a fall twist. The subtle sweetness of pumpkin blends beautifully with an Aged Cheddar, creating a dish that’s rich, warm, and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 300g elbow macaroni
• 200g Aged Cheddar, grated
• 100g Cream Cheese
• 1 cup pumpkin purée
• 250ml milk
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt the Cream Cheese with milk over low heat.
3. Stir in the pumpkin purée, Cheddar cheese, mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring until fully coated.
5. Serve hot, optionally garnished with crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.

3. Apple and Brie Puff Pastry Tart

This simple yet elegant tart is perfect for autumn gatherings. The combination of sweet, caramelized apples and creamy Brie cheese is a match made in heaven, while the flaky puff pastry provides a delightful crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 3 medium apples, thinly sliced
• 200g Brie cheese, sliced
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a baking sheet and score a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Arrange the apple slices and Brie cheese in an alternating pattern inside the border.
4. Drizzle honey over the apples and Brie, and sprinkle with fresh thyme.
5. Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pastry is golden and crisp.
7. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

4. Cheesy Potato Soup

Few things are as comforting as a bowl of potato soup on a chilly autumn day. This version is packed with melted Cheddar cheese, making it extra creamy and rich. Top it with crispy bacon bits and chives for the ultimate indulgence.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 500ml chicken or vegetable broth
• 300ml milk
• 200g Cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Fresh chives for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes and broth, then bring to a boil. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
3. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth (or leave some chunks for texture).
4. Stir in the milk and Cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and serve topped with crumbled bacon and chives.

5. Fig and Goat Cheese Salad

Fall is fig season, and they pair beautifully with creamy Goat Cheese in this simple salad. The sweetness of the figs and the tanginess of the Goat Cheese are balanced with peppery arugula and crunchy walnuts, making this a light yet flavourful dish.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh figs, quartered
• 100g Goat Cheese, crumbled
• 2 cups arugula
• 1 small bunch of green grapes
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Arrange the arugula on a serving platter.
2. Top with quartered figs, crumbled Goat Cheese and grapes.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

6. Cheddar and Sage Biscuits

These buttery, flaky biscuits are packed with a mature Cheddar cheese and the earthy flavour of sage, making them a perfect accompaniment to soups, stews or even your Thanksgiving spread.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 100g cold butter, cubed
• 150g Cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 200ml buttermilk

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the grated Cheddar and chopped sage.
5. Add buttermilk and mix until just combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.

7. Mushroom and Taleggio Risotto

Mushrooms are at their best in the fall, and they pair beautifully with the creamy, earthy flavour of Taleggio cheese in this luxurious risotto. The slow cooking method brings out the earthy, savoury flavours of the mushrooms and the rich creaminess of the cheese.

Ingredients

• 200g Arborio rice
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 500ml vegetable broth, warmed
• 200ml white wine
• 150g Taleggio cheese, diced
• 2 tbsp butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pan, sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms in butter until the mushrooms are golden.
2. Add the rice and stir to coat in the butter.
3. Pour in the white wine and cook until it’s mostly absorbed.
4. Gradually add the broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring continuously until the rice is creamy and al dente.
5. Stir in the Taleggio cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan

Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, and a sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nutty, salty finish that turns this simple vegetable dish into something special. This is a great side dish for any fall meal, particularly holiday dinners.

Ingredients

• 500g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 100g Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside.
4. Remove from the oven and toss with Parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar.
5. Serve warm as a side dish.

9. Baked Brie Puff Pastry with Cranberry Sauce

Baked Brie is the ultimate fall appetiser. The gooey, melty cheese is paired with sweet cranberries, all wrapped up in golden puff pastry. It’s perfect for entertaining or simply indulging yourself on a chilly evening.

Ingredients

• 1 round of Brie cheese
• 2 tbsp cranberry sauce
• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Place the Brie in the centre of the puff pastry.
3. Fold the pastry over the Brie and seal the edges.
4. Brush the pastry with egg wash and bake for 20 minutes, until golden brown.
5. Top with cranberry sauce.
6. Serve immediately with crackers or slices of baguette.

Conclusion

Fall is the perfect time to indulge in rich, comforting dishes, and cheese adds a warm, creamy element to any meal. From savoury tarts and hearty soups to decadent risottos and baked appetisers, these cheesy fall recipes will bring a touch of indulgence to your autumn table.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these recipes are sure to become seasonal favourites, making fall feel even more comforting and delicious.

Enjoy the season with these cheesy delights!

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post 9 Best Cheesy Fall Recipes (Seasonal, Comforting & Fun) appeared first on Cheese Scientist.

SEE ALSO: How to create the perfect cheese platter for any occasion →

How to choose your cheeses

Choosing the right cheeses is key to a successful Halloween platter. For this holiday, we’re going all-in on cheeses that echo the season’s colours and spooky vibes, starting with Mimolette, Shropshire Blue and Époisses.

Mimolette

Mimolette is a natural choice for Halloween. Its round shape and bright orange colour make it look just like a pumpkin. This French cheese has a nutty, buttery flavour with a crumbly texture that becomes harder as it ages.

Aged Mimolette, in particular, has a deeply pocked rind that looks almost ghoulish, adding to its spooky appeal.

Why it works for Halloween: Its vibrant orange colour and resemblance to a pumpkin make it perfect for a Halloween-themed platter.

Shropshire Blue

Shropshire Blue brings a slightly creepy vibe to your platter, thanks to its striking blue veins running through the orange paste. It’s similar to Stilton but slightly milder, with a creamy texture and tangy flavour. The contrast between the orange and blue is eye-catching and adds a haunted look to your cheese board.

Why it works for Halloween: The eerie contrast of bright orange and dark blue makes it visually spooky and perfect for the season.

Époisses

Époisses is a French washed rind cheese known for its yeasty aroma and soft, creamy texture. Its rind is often a reddish-orange hue, thanks to being washed in brine and Marc de Bourgogne. Époisses has a strong, bold flavour that balances between salty and sweet, and its runny interior makes it an indulgent centrepiece for your platter.

Why it works for Halloween: Its gooey texture can add a slightly eerie touch, like a melted cauldron of cheese. Plus, its orange rind ties in beautifully with the other orange cheeses.

Other Halloween-friendly cheeses

• Red Leicester: Mild, creamy, and perfect for adding more orange to the board.
• Double Gloucester: A smooth and mellow cheese that’s also a deep golden-orange.
• Langres: This small wrinkly washed rind from Champagne has a rind that looks almost brainy.

You can discover my complete list of the best orange cheeses for Halloween here.

Spooky presentation: setting the scene

Once you’ve selected your cheeses, it’s time to think about how to present them in a way that matches the Halloween theme. The presentation will add that extra touch of fun and intrigue to your platter.

Step 1: Choose the right platter

For a Halloween cheese board, opt for a dark serving surface. Black slate or dark wood boards are ideal, as they allow the bright orange of the cheeses to stand out. If you’re feeling extra festive, a pumpkin-shaped board could add an extra Halloween touch.

Step 2: Prepare and arrange your cheeses

• Mimolette: Cut Mimolette into thick wedges to highlight its crumbly texture. You could even carve it into a pumpkin face for extra Halloween fun!
• Shropshire Blue: Break Shropshire Blue into chunks to showcase the contrast between the blue veins and the orange cheese.
• Époisses: Époisses should be served whole, in its wooden box or on a small plate, with a cheese knife so guests can scoop its creamy interior. Its gooey texture will add a deliciously sinister look to the board.

Scatter the cheeses across your board in an organic, slightly chaotic way. A neat, orderly presentation is less fitting for Halloween, so aim for something more rustic and wild.

Step 3: Add themed accompaniments

To bring the whole platter together, add Halloween-themed accompaniments:

• Charcoal Crackers: Their black colour adds an eerie touch and contrasts beautifully with the orange cheeses.
• Red Grapes: Arrange them around the board like little creepy eyes.
• Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: These add crunch and stay on theme with the autumn feel.
• Fig Jam: Its deep, blood-red colour and rich flavour work well with strong cheeses like Époisses and Shropshire Blue.
• Dried Apricots: Their bright orange hue complements the cheeses while adding a chewy texture.
• Honeycomb: A drizzle of honey or a chunk of honeycomb provides a sweet contrast to the salty cheeses, and its golden appearance is perfect for autumn.

Applying the finishing touches

Halloween is all about the details. Here are some ideas to decorate your platter and create a spooky atmosphere.

1. Mini pumpkins and gourds

Scatter mini pumpkins and gourds around your cheese platter for a festive feel. You could even hollow out a small pumpkin to serve nuts or dried fruit in.

2. Spider webs and plastic spiders

For a truly creepy touch, add some fake spider webs around the platter (just be sure they’re food-safe or kept clear of the cheese). Dot a few plastic spiders throughout the board to keep your guests on edge!

3. Halloween-themed cutlery

Consider using black or skull-shaped cheese knives to keep with the spooky theme. You could also opt for bone-shaped cutlery for an extra eerie touch.

4. Mood lighting

Create a haunting atmosphere by dimming the lights and adding some flickering candles around the table. You could even use orange or black candles to match the colour theme. Lanterns and LED lights in pumpkin shapes also add a cosy yet spooky vibe to your spread.

Best drink pairings for your Halloween cheese platter

Pairing your Halloween cheese board with the right drinks will take it to the next level. Here are a few suggestions to match the autumnal flavours of your cheese selections.

1. Red wine

A deep, rich red wine like a Merlot or a Shiraz works wonderfully with the strong flavours of Shropshire Blue and Mimolette. The boldness of the wine complements the tangy and nutty notes of the cheeses, while the red colour keeps with the Halloween theme.

2. Cider

A crisp cider is a great pairing for Époisses and Mimolette. The sweetness of the apples balances the saltiness of the cheeses, and cider’s autumnal feel is a perfect fit for Halloween.

3. Pumpkin ale

If you want to lean into the Halloween theme, a spiced pumpkin ale is an excellent match. The warm spices complement the buttery richness of Époisses, while the pumpkin flavours tie everything together.

4. Non-alcoholic options

For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, consider offering a sparkling apple juice or a festive spiced punch. You can make a Halloween punch by combining cranberry juice, apple cider and cinnamon sticks for a warming, spooky drink.

Serving tips

To make sure your Halloween cheese platter is as impressive as it is delicious, follow these serving tips:

• Serve at Room Temperature: Let the cheeses sit out for at least 30 minutes before serving, as this allows their flavours to develop fully.
• Label the Cheeses: You could have fun with this by giving the cheeses spooky names. For instance, label Mimolette as “Pumpkin Head” and Shropshire Blue as “Ghostly Veins.” Small chalkboards or parchment labels work well for this.
• Keep It Clean: Use a separate knife for each cheese to avoid mixing flavours and to make it easier for guests to serve themselves.

Conclusion

A Halloween cheese platter is all about embracing the spooky, autumnal feel of the season while offering your guests a rich and delicious experience. By highlighting vibrant orange cheeses like Mimolette, Shropshire Blue and Époisses, you can create a visually stunning and tasty spread that’s perfect for any Halloween gathering.

With the right decorations, accompaniments and drink pairings, your cheese board will become the centrepiece of your party. So get ready to impress your guests with a cheese board that’s equal parts creepy and delicious!

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post The Ultimate Halloween Cheese Platter (With Spooky Pairings) appeared first on Cheese Scientist.

SEE ALSO: My complete guide to assembling the ultimate cheese platter for any type of gathering →

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create a stunning fall cheese platter that not only tastes incredible but also captures the essence of the season. From choosing the right cheeses and accompaniments to arranging everything like a pro, let’s dive into the art of crafting a fall-inspired masterpiece.

Selecting the cheeses

The cheese is, of course, the star of your platter, so you’ll want to choose a variety of flavours, textures and milk types to create a balanced and intriguing spread. For a fall theme, think about cheeses that offer warmth, richness and depth—flavours that evoke the coziness of the season.

Soft cheeses

Soft cheeses are creamy, luscious and approachable, making them a must-have on any cheese platter. For fall, opt for cheeses that are particularly rich or tangy.

• Brie or Camembert: These buttery French classics are perfect for fall. Brie has a mild, creamy flavour, while Camembert tends to be slightly more pungent. Warm them up in the oven for a few minutes for an extra gooey texture that pairs wonderfully with seasonal fruits and nuts.
• Goat Cheese: A fresh chèvre offers a tangy, bright contrast to the richer cheeses on the board. You can roll it in herbs or chopped nuts for a more festive presentation. For a fall twist, try a fig or honey-drizzled goat cheese.

Semi-soft cheeses

Semi-soft cheeses are versatile and offer a variety of flavour profiles that can range from mild to bold.

• Taleggio: This Italian washed rind cheese is earthy and creamy with a slight nuttiness, making it a great addition to a fall cheese board. It pairs well with roasted mushrooms, nuts and hearty breads.
• Havarti: Havarti is mild, buttery and slightly tangy. Look for dill or caraway varieties to add an herbaceous note to your platter.

Aged cheeses

Aged cheeses bring a deeper, more intense flavour profile to the platter, perfect for the cooler months when we crave heartier flavours.

• Aged Gouda: A rich, caramel-like flavour with a crumbly texture, Aged Gouda is an excellent fall cheese. Its caramel-like sweetness pairs beautifully with dried fruits, such as apricots and figs, as well as crunchy nuts.
• Cheddar: Extra Mature Cheddar, especially when aged for two or more years, has a rich, tangy bite that complements the sweet and savory elements of a fall platter. A Smoked Cheddar can also add a nice, warming note.
• Manchego: This Spanish sheep’s milk cheese has a firm texture and a sweet, nutty flavour that works well with fall accompaniments. It’s a great bridge between milder cheeses and more robust ones.

Blue cheeses

Blue cheeses are bold, spicy and full of character. They can be divisive, but for those who enjoy them, they add an unmistakable richness to a cheese board.

• Roquefort: Known for its creamy texture and wild, tangy flavour, Roquefort is a strong blue cheese that pairs beautifully with honey, pears and nuts. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate the intense flavours of blue cheeses.
• Gorgonzola Dolce: For a milder blue cheese option, Gorgonzola Dolce offers a creamier, less aggressive profile. Its sweetness pairs well with figs, walnuts, and spiced jams.
• Shropshire Blue: What better colour than a splash of orange to celebrate the season. This mild British blue is another great gateway blue cheese.

Seasonal accompaniments

A cheese platter is only as good as its accompaniments, and fall provides a wealth of ingredients that can elevate your board. The goal is to balance sweet, savory, crunchy and creamy textures to create a dynamic and satisfying experience.

Fruits

Autumn brings an abundance of ripe fruits that complement the richness of the cheeses. Opt for a mix of fresh and dried fruits to add sweetness and visual appeal to your platter.

• Figs: Fresh figs are a classic pairing for cheese, especially for soft cheeses like Brie or Cambozola. Their natural sweetness and slightly jammy texture are perfect for fall.
• Pears: Crisp and juicy pears are a versatile choice that can pair well with almost any cheese. Try slicing them thinly and arranging them alongside your cheeses for a refreshing bite.
• Apples: Tart, crisp apples like Granny Smiths or sweet Honeycrisp varieties are an excellent addition to a fall cheese board. Their crunchy texture provides a nice contrast to soft and creamy cheeses.
• Grapes: Red or black grapes offer a juicy sweetness that balances out stronger cheeses like Roquefort or Extra Mature Cheddar.
• Dried Apricots and Figs: Dried fruits bring a concentrated sweetness that pairs well with aged cheeses like Gouda or Manchego.

Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds add a crunchy element to your cheese platter and pair beautifully with both cheeses and fruits. For fall, consider toasting your nuts with warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.

• Pecans: Toasted pecans, especially if they’re glazed with a touch of honey or maple syrup, are a perfect autumnal treat.
• Walnuts: Raw or candied walnuts bring a rich, earthy flavour that complements blue cheeses or a triple cream delight like Brillat-Savarin.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Roasted pumpkin seeds, lightly salted, are a seasonal touch that adds crunch and a bit of saltiness to the mix.

Jams, honey and chutneys

To add an extra layer of flavour to your platter, include some sweet and savory spreads that enhance the taste of your cheeses.

• Fig Jam: Sweet and slightly tangy, fig jam is a perfect match for Brie, goat cheese or Manchego.
• Apple Butter: This spiced spread brings all the warmth of fall in one bite. It pairs especially well with Cheddar or aged Gouda.
• Honey: A drizzle of honey is a simple yet luxurious addition to a cheese board. It works beautifully with blue cheeses and soft goat cheese.
• Chutneys: Spiced fruit chutneys, like apple or pear chutney, add a savory-sweet element that pairs well with aged cheeses.

Crackers and bread

The base for your cheeses and accompaniments should be sturdy enough to hold everything together while also offering a neutral flavour that lets the other ingredients shine.

• Rustic Breads: A crusty baguette or a dense whole grain bread is perfect for soft cheeses like Brie or Mont d’Or.
• Seeded Crackers: Look for crackers with a bit of texture and flavour, like those made with seeds or whole grains. These provide a great crunch and work well with creamy cheeses.
• Gluten-Free Options: If you’re catering to a gluten-free crowd, include rice crackers or gluten-free seeded crackers, which offer a satisfying crunch without overpowering the flavours of the cheeses.

Pairing with beverages

Of course, no cheese platter is complete without the right drinks to accompany it. Since fall is a season of cozy, warming flavours, think about beverages that complement the rich, creamy and nutty notes of your cheeses.

Wine pairings

• Red Wines: Rich reds like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon or a bold Zinfandel are ideal for pairing with aged cheeses like Cheddar or Gruyère. Their tannins balance the fattiness of the cheese while the fruit flavours enhance the sweet accompaniments.
• White Wines: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs well with softer cheeses like goat cheese or a double cream Brie. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a refreshing contrast.
• Rosé: For a versatile option, a dry rosé can work with a variety of cheeses, offering a balance of fruitiness and acidity that complements both soft and aged varieties.

Cider and beer pairings

• Hard Cider: Fall is cider season, and the crisp, slightly sweet flavour of hard cider pairs beautifully with many cheeses. Try a dry apple or pear cider with a Camembert.
• Craft Beers: For a more robust pairing, consider offering craft beers like a nutty brown ale, a rich stout or a spiced pumpkin beer. These pair well with the hearty flavours of fall cheeses like aged Gruyère or Comté.

Presentation and arrangement of the platter

Finally, the presentation of your cheese platter should reflect the beauty and abundance of the season. Use natural elements like wooden boards, slate platters or marble to create a rustic yet elegant look.

Step-by-step arrangement

1. Start with the Cheese: Place your cheeses first, spacing them evenly around the board. Leave space for slicing and serving. If you’re using a round board, place the largest cheese at the center.
2. Add Fruits and Accompaniments: Arrange the fresh and dried fruits around the cheeses, clustering them together for a more abundant look.
3. Nuts and Seeds: Scatter small piles of nuts and seeds in any gaps on the board. You want the platter to feel full and inviting.
4. Crackers and Bread: Place the crackers and slices of bread around the edges of the board, allowing them to frame the cheeses and other accompaniments. If you have different types of crackers or bread, arrange them in separate areas to make it easy for guests to mix and match.

5. Jams, Honey and Chutneys: If you’re using small bowls or ramekins for spreads, place them on the board next to cheeses that pair well with them. Make sure to include small spoons or knives for easy serving.
6. Garnish for a Fall Touch: To make the platter even more festive, consider adding some seasonal garnishes like fresh rosemary sprigs, edible flowers or even small pumpkins or gourds placed around the edges of the board for decoration. You could also use fresh herbs, such as thyme or sage, which not only add color but also complement the flavours of fall.
7. Finish with Labels: If you’re hosting a larger gathering and want to impress your guests, consider labeling the cheeses and accompaniments. This can be done with small handwritten tags or chalkboard signs, which also adds a rustic touch.

Final tips for a memorable fall cheese platter

Now that you have all the components ready, here are a few tips to ensure your fall cheese platter is a hit:

• Serve at Room Temperature: Cheese tastes best when served at room temperature. Take your cheeses out of the fridge about 30-60 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavours to fully develop and offer the best texture.
• Keep Balance in Mind: Try to maintain a balance of flavours and textures on the board. For example, pair strong cheeses with mild ones and sweet accompaniments with savory elements. This will create a well-rounded platter that appeals to a variety of tastes.
• Consider Dietary Restrictions: If you’re serving a crowd, consider offering a mix of dairy and non-dairy cheeses, or gluten-free crackers, to cater to different dietary preferences. There are excellent plant-based cheese options available that can easily be incorporated into your fall platter without sacrificing flavour or texture.
• Replenish as Needed: If you’re hosting a longer event, make sure to replenish your platter as guests enjoy it. Keep extra fruits, nuts and crackers nearby so the board always looks abundant and inviting.

Some great fall cheese platter ideas

To help you envision the ultimate fall cheese platter, here are a few themed ideas that you can use for inspiration:

Cozy Autumn Night Platter

• Cheeses: Brie, Aged Gouda, Gruyère, Shropshire Blue
• Fruits: Sliced Honeycrisp apples, dried apricots, fresh figs
• Accompaniments: Candied pecans, pumpkin seeds, fig jam, honey
• Crackers and Bread: Rustic baguette slices, seeded crackers
• Beverages: Hard apple cider, Merlot

This platter is perfect for a cozy evening with friends, filled with warm flavours and contrasting textures. The gooey Brie pairs beautifully with the honey and apples, while the Gruyère and Shropshire Blue balance the sweetness of the fig jam and dried fruits.

Harvest Festival Platter

• Cheeses: Manchego, Camembert, Taleggio, Roquefort
• Fruits: Pear slices, grapes, dried figs
• Accompaniments: Roasted almonds, pumpkin butter, chutney
• Crackers and Bread: Whole-grain bread, oat crackers
• Beverages: Zinfandel, Chardonnay

This platter features a great mix of nutty, creamy and bold cheeses, paired with hearty fall fruits and chutneys. The addition of pumpkin butter adds a true seasonal touch, and the whole-grain bread enhances the rustic, harvest feel.

Thanksgiving Cheese Board

• Cheeses: Fresh Goat Cheese, Smoked Cheddar, Aged Gouda, Gorgonzola Dolce
• Fruits: Cranberries, apples, dried apricots
• Accompaniments: Candied walnuts, cranberry chutney, spiced pecans, honey
• Crackers and Bread: Cornbread crisps, sourdough bread
• Beverages: Sparkling rosé, hard pear cider

A great option for a Thanksgiving gathering, this platter combines classic holiday flavours with an array of delicious cheeses. Smoked Cheddar and spiced nuts give a hint of the fall holiday spirit, while the tartness of cranberry chutney pairs well with a tangy goat cheese.

Conclusion

Creating the ultimate fall cheese platter is all about embracing the flavours of the season and presenting them in a way that feels both abundant and inviting. With a thoughtful selection of cheeses, seasonal accompaniments like apples, figs, nuts, and spiced jams, and the perfect beverage pairings, your fall cheese platter will become the centerpiece of any gathering.

Not only does a well-curated cheese board provide a delicious variety of flavours and textures, but it also offers an opportunity to showcase the beauty of fall’s harvest. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a festive holiday dinner, or simply indulging in a quiet evening at home, a fall cheese platter brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to your table.

So, gather your favorite cheeses, grab some seasonal fruits, and start building your ultimate fall cheese platter!

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post How to Make the Ultimate Fall Cheese Platter (Seasonal Pairings) appeared first on Cheese Scientist.

SEE ALSO: The best cheeses to eat with your leftover turkey → 

When is Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the Unites States. Since this is a time to give thanks, it is the perfect occasion to enjoy a cheese platter with loved ones. And what better cheeses than these 5 must have American cheeses for Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving’s origins in North America can be traced back to English traditions dating back to the Protestant Reformation. Moreover, it features elements of a harvest feast, despite the fact that the harvest in New England happens well before the present Thanksgiving holiday in late November.

Without further ado, let’s talk cheese!

Rush Creek Reserve (Uplands Cheese)

Rush Creek Reserve is a soft washed rind cheese made by Uplands Cheese in Wisconsin. Actually, Andy Hatch produces this seasonal wonder only in the fall. When their cows’ diet transitions from summer grass to winter dry hay, they produce a particular rich milk. Indeed, Andy exclusively uses this milk to make batches of Rush Creek Reserve.

As a result, this cheese is so soft and luscious that it is often referred to as a savoury custard. Spruce bark is used to wrap each cheese, giving it shape and imparting a slight woodsy flavour.

Before serving Rush Creek, bring the cheese to room temp or warm it gently in an oven. Cut around the circle of the cheese with a knife, slightly above the bark. Remove the rind and use a spoon to scrape out the gooey interior. Deep but subtle, the savoury flavours pair well with cured meats, roasted root vegetables, and off-dry white wines.

Bonne Bouche (Vermont Creamery)

Bonne Bouche is French for “tasty little bite“. Vermont Creamery’s flagship aged goat cheese is made with pasteurised goat’s milk. Once the curd is set, the cheesemaker hand-ladles it into mould before delicately sprinkling the cheese with ash. As it ages, the cheese develops a gorgeous wrinkly Geotrichum candidum rind.

The aroma of fresh bread wafts through the air when you break into a young wheel, and a fresh cream flavour covers the mouth. Allow it to age a little longer, and those creamy aromas transform into acidic, spicy tastes with a creamy undercurrent. Bonne Bouche enjoys a glass of Sancerre, which is reminiscent of Loire Valley favourites like Selles Sur Cher.

Bay Blue (Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese)

For nearly 15 years, the Point Reyes Creamery in Northern California has been producing award-winning cheese. Bay Blue is a more recent addition to their cheese family. At the 2013 Fancy Food Show in New York, Bay Blue won the award for Best New Product. Because of the interesting evolution of tastes made by the cheesemakers, it has become a highlight.

In the beginning, you’ll detect sweet and gentle earthy flavours, followed by a tang of salted caramel. When you combine these flavours with its creamy, fudge-like texture, you’ll want to award it as well.

Honnalee (Briar Rose Creamery)

Honnalee is where Puff the Magic Dragon lives by the sea. Briar Rose Creamery’s semi-firm washed rind cheese is every bit as magical and playful. Inspired by Raclette, Havarti and Fontina, the cheesemaker crafts this stunning cheese using pasteurised cow’s milk. 

Its maturation period lasts for a minimum of two months, during which time the affineur loving cares for each wheel. As a result of this process, the cheese develops a gorgeous natural rind. Overall, its flavour is incredibly complex oscillating between funky earthy notes and a savoury, brothy and fruity finish. Furthermore, its texture is fudgy and will melt in your mouth!

Prairie Tomme (Green Dirt Farm)

Green Dirt Farm is located on steep rolling hills overlooking the countryside on the bluffs of the Missouri River Valley. Sarah Hoffmann created the farm in 2002 with the objective of producing sheep’s milk cheeses in a sustainable, ethical, and economically just manner.

Prairie Tomme is a seasonal sheep’s milk cheese inspired by French Alps cheeses. It is a spring-time cooked curd cheese created using early-season milk. The wheels are allowed to mature for at least four months before being washed twice a week. The cheese has a smooth, firm texture and a buttery, nutty taste. It melts well and grates easily; try it in a grilled cheese sandwich or in a fondue.

So there you have our must-have American cheeses for Thanksgiving

We hope that you enjoyed our 5 Must Have American Cheeses For Thanksgiving. Did we miss any of your favourites? Drop us a comment below.

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post 5 Must-Have American Cheeses For Thanksgiving appeared first on Cheese Scientist.