How to Create a Show Stopping Dessert Board

Christmas is the perfect time to gather around a table filled with loved ones, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. If you’ve been asked to bring dessert to a Christmas lunch, why not create a dessert board that’s as stunning as it is scrumptious? This year, I’m making a festive dessert board that combines classic flavours with tropical flair and a sprinkle of decadence. Here’s how you can create a show stopping dessert board.

The Base of the Board

Start with a large wooden or marble board as the foundation. A wooden board gives a rustic, homey feel, while marble adds an elegant touch. If you’re traveling with your dessert board, consider assembling it on a sturdy platter that’s easy to transport. I chose a large round one with sides. You can find a similar one here.

What to Include on the Board

A dessert board is all about variety and visual appeal. For this board, we’re going to mix light, fresh flavours with rich, indulgent treats. If you wish to do a Pavlova Charcuterie Board only you can find instructions here:

1. Mini Pavlova Bases

These are a the star of the board. Arrange a collection of crisp, individual pavlova bases that guests can top themselves.

2. Whipped Cream

Prepare a generous bowl of softly whipped cream to serve as the base for toppings. Simply scoop it into a pretty bowl with a serving spoon.

3. Tropical Fruits

Slice up tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, pineapple, and fresh berries. These add vibrant color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pavlovas.

4. Toblerone Cream

For a decadent twist, include a bowl of chocolate cream. Simply fold cooled melted chocolate into whipped cream for a rich, mousse-like topping.

5. Flaked Chocolate Pieces

Sprinkle texture and indulgence across the board with shards of flaked chocolate. Use milk, dark, or white chocolate—or all three for variety.

6. Lemon Curd

Drizzle-ready passionfruit curd is a tropical dream. Serve it in a small bowl with a tiny spoon so guests can add a tangy burst to their pavlovas.

7. Mini Trifles

Prepare a few mini trifles in clear mini shot glasses to add height and interest to your board. Layers of sponge cake, custard, jelly, and cream are a crowdpleaser and visually stunning.

8. Treats from the Gifting Cookbook

Raid your Recipes for Gifting cookbooks for a selection of festive treats. Some ideas might include:

• Rocky Road
• A Variety of Chocolate balls
• Some slices eg Hazelnut Slice or Turkish Delight Slice cut in small piece.
• Cookies

How to Arrange Your Dessert Board

To make your dessert board extra festive, arrange the items to resemble a Christmas wreath. Here’s how:

1. Add Bowls Strategically: Position the bowls of whipped cream, toblerone cream, and lemon curd around the board, ensuring they are evenly spaced for easy access.
2. Add Mini Trifles and Treats: Place the mini trifles and treats like rocky road, cookies, chocolate balls etc around the wreath to add height and variety.
3. Layer the Fruits: Add slices of tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries along the pavlova circle, tucking them in and around the pavlova bases to create a lush, colourful “greenery” effect.
4. Sprinkle Chocolate and Garnishes: Finish by placing flaked chocolate around the board and adding sprigs of mint, or even a few small candy canes to enhance the festive look.
5. If you have space top it off with a bow.

This arrangement not only looks stunning but also makes it easy for guests to help themselves.

Tips for Transporting

Transporting a dessert board doesn’t have to be stressful, especially if you’re traveling a good distance. Here are a few tips to keep everything fresh and intact:

• Chop and Prep in Advance: Slice all fruits and prepare creams, curds, and other toppings ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh and ready to go.
• Assemble On-Site if Traveling Far: If you’re traveling a long distance, consider transporting the components separately and assembling the board at your destination. This ensures the pavlova bases stay crisp and the fruit and creams remain fresh.
• Secure the Bowls and Containers: Wrap bowls with plastic wrap or use beeswax wraps to prevent spills during transport.
• Use a Sturdy Tray or Container: If you prefer to pre-assemble the board, choose a flat storage container with sides to keep everything in place.

By preparing ahead but assembling on-site when necessary, you’ll ensure your dessert board arrives looking just as spectacular as you imagined!

Why a Dessert Board?

Dessert boards are perfect for Christmas gatherings because they’re customizable, interactive, and provide something for everyone. Plus, they’re stunning to look at, making them a dessert and centerpiece in one.

This dessert board is sure to be a hit at your Christmas lunch. It combines the joy of individual pavlovas with the rich indulgence of chocolate and the light freshness of tropical fruit. Add in a few festive treats, and you’ve got a dessert that’s bound to impress.

What will you include on your dessert board this Christmas? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy entertaining!