Best Cheese Boards: Great Gift Sets or Starter Boards
Norah Clark
If you're hosting a party or just enjoying a night in, you should consider some of the best cheese boards we reviewed, as they will be a perfect addition to your spread. Cheese boards come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, and choosing the right one can enhance your display.
I spent a lot of time researching and testing various cheese boards in my kitchen to identify the best cheese boards to buy.
Best Cheese Boards You Need in Your Kitchen
If you love cheese as much as I do, you know that the presentation of cheese is just as important as the taste. From rustic wooden boards to sleek marble slabs, you'll be spoilt for choice. Check out our top picks below.
1. ChefSofi Charcuterie Cheese Board and Platter Set
If you're looking for a stylish and functional cheese board set, the ChefSofi Charcuterie Cheese Board and Platter Set is a great option.
Pros
- The set includes four bowls and four knives, making it easy to serve and slice all types of cheese and charcuterie.
- The acacia wood board is spacious, with a wide 13-inch diameter that provides plenty of room for crackers, utensils, and cutlery.
- The set is designed in Germany and made of high-quality materials, ensuring that it will last for many years of use.
Cons
- Some users may find the set to be a bit heavy and difficult to move around.
- The set may be a bit pricey compared to some other cheese board options.
- The board may require a bit of maintenance to keep it looking its best over time.
We were impressed with the quality and craftsmanship of this cheese board set. The acacia wood board is beautifully designed and the four bowls and knives make it easy to serve a variety of cheeses and charcuterie. We also appreciated the spacious design, which provided plenty of room for serving utensils and cutlery.
We did find the board a little cumbersome and heavy so we wouldn't advise a lot of moving it around. Additionally, the set may be a bit pricey compared to some other cheese board options.
2. HOME IT Bamboo Charcuterie Boards Gift Set
If you're looking for a complete charcuterie board set, then the HOME IT Bamboo Charcuterie Boards Gift Set is worth considering.
Pros
- Get more value for money with this set that includes two boards, two trays, four utensils, and two ceramic bowls.
- Showcase your finest cheeses, cold cuts, fruits, and nuts with the multiple compartments.
- Serve in style with the stylish design that is perfect for any celebration.
Cons
- Not dishwasher or oven safe, so hand washing is required.
- It's surprisingly not treated with a sealant so you could find yourself with a slight abrasion. This was a bit offputting.
- The forks are thin and may bend easily.
The premium bamboo material is durable and will not easily crack or warp. The set is extensive including two boards, two trays, four utensils, and two ceramic bowls, providing more value for your money. The multiple compartments allow you to curate and showcase your finest cheeses, cold cuts, fruits, and nuts. We also loved the stylish design suitable for any occasion.
Due to it's materials, the board is not dishwasher or oven safe, so hand washing is required. We found the board rough to the touch and not treated with a sealant which could be a real drawback. The forks are thin and bend easily, which was concerning. Despite these minor drawbacks, we think that the HOME IT Bamboo Charcuterie Boards Gift Set is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a complete charcuterie board set that is versatile, stylish, durable, and functional.
3. SMIRLY Charcuterie Boards Gift Set
We also tested the SMIRLY Charcuterie Boards Gift Set:Pros
- Impress your guests with the largest cheese board on the market and a ton of beneficial features
- Perfect for any gathering, whether it's a romantic evening for two or a large holiday party
- Stylish housewarming gift that comes with a sturdy decorative box for instant gifting
Cons
- The board is heavy and bulky, which may make it difficult to store
- Some users have reported that the ceramic bowls are prone to cracking
- The price point may be a bit high for some buyers
The size of this cheese board made it ideal for entertaining friends and family gatherings. The four-sided board with all the accessories and extras allowed us to unleash our creativity and we had no trouble setting a gorgeous platter. The board is made of natural bamboo, which is earth-friendly and highly renewable. It's also super easy to clean and very durable, making it a smart purchase for years to come.
However, board is large and heavy, making it difficult to store easily. Regrettably one of the ceramic bowls cracked while testing, so care should be taken when handling them. Finally, the price point may be a bit high for some buyers, but we do feel that the quality and functionality of the board make it worth your while to consider as a great buy.
4. FamRica Cheese Board Set
Next up is the FamRica Cheese Board Set:
Pros
- The hidden drawers are a great feature for storing cheese knives and an extra serving plate.
- The bamboo material used in the cheese board is of high quality and conforms to food standards.
- The set is perfect for any occasion and makes a great housewarming gift.
Cons
- The set is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing.
- The cheese knives may not be as sharp as some users would prefer.
- The board may be too small for larger gatherings.
We loved the hidden drawers that allowed for storage of cheese knives and an extra serving plate. We had no issue with the high-quality bamboo material which conformed to food and safety standards.
The set is perfect for any occasion and makes a great housewarming gift. However, like most of the boards, it's not dishwasher safe and you'll have to handwash it. We also found that the cheese knives could have been a little sharper.
5. RoyalHouse Bamboo Round Cheese Board
Consider looking at the Royal House Bamboo Round Cheese Board and 4 Knives Set with Slide-Out Cutlery Drawer.
Pros
- The elegant design of the bamboo cheese board adds sophistication to any occasion.
- The set comes with a complete cutlery set with 4 knives for various cheese types, neatly organized in a slide-out cutlery drawer, providing convenience and functionality.
- The durable bamboo material ensures long-lasting use for your entertaining needs.
Cons
- The size of the cheese board is on the smaller side, which may not be ideal for larger gatherings or parties.
- The set only comes with 4 knives, which may not be enough for larger cheese platters.
- The slide-out cutlery drawer may be difficult to clean thoroughly.
Elegantly designed, this bamboo cheese board is perfect for any occasion. The set came with a set with 4 knives for various cheese types, which are neatly organized in a slide-out cutlery drawer. A great idea, we thought.
Again, made of durable bamboo, this board should last you a lifetime. You will certainly be proud of displaying your charcuterie on this.
We did notice, however, that the size of the cheese board is on the smaller side, which may not be ideal for larger gatherings or parties. Finally, the slide-out cutlery drawer may be difficult to clean thoroughly.
6. VAREZZA Extra Large Charcuterie Boards Gift Set
The VAREZZA Extra Large Charcuterie Boards Gift Set could be the choice for your needs.
Pros
- The set includes a variety of boards and utensils for creating a beautiful and diverse charcuterie platter.
- The large size of the main board and the ability to expand it with additional trays make it perfect for any gathering.
- The smooth bamboo material is durable and easy to maintain.
Cons
- The set is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to transport to different locations.
- Some users have reported issues with the drawer that holds the utensils sticking or being difficult to open.
- The set is not dishwasher or oven safe, so it may require some extra care to clean and maintain.
This board oozes elegance and versatility. The set includes a large main board, two smaller trays, and a fruit tray, as well as 23 utensils and ceramic dishes for serving a variety of cheeses, meats, fruits, and other snacks.
We were so impressed to see that we could expand the main board by sliding out the smaller trays, which gave us ample room to create a diverse and beautiful charcuterie platter. The board also has four deep cracker trays and four dipping bowl slots, which provide additional serving options.
The bamboo material of the board is smooth and durable, and it's easy to wipe clean with a dry cloth. We appreciated the included care instructions, which helped ensure that the boards would stay in good condition for future use.
Because it has so many features, it did weigh in on the heavy side and could make it cumbersome to transport to other locations. We also found that the utensil drawer was a bit difficult to open. A common theme with these cheese boards is they are not dishwasher or oven safe; this was no exception.
7. LENUE Premium Organic Bamboo Cheese Board
The LENUE Premium Organic Bamboo Cheese Board is a great option:
Pros
- The organic bamboo material is of superior quality and non-porous, making it easy to clean and resistant to stains and odors.
- The set includes four stainless steel serving utensils, two ceramic dipping bowls, and four cheese markers with two chalk, making it a complete and thoughtful gift for any cheese lover.
- The slate cheese plate surface is perfect for cutting cheese and displaying specialty meats, and the ceramic bowls are ideal for serving dips and spreads.
Cons
- The board is relatively large and may not be suitable for smaller gatherings or storage in cramped kitchens.
- The utensils are stored in a sliding drawer, which may not be as secure as a separate storage container.
- The board is not dishwasher safe and must be wiped with a damp cloth to clean.
8. House Ur Home Bamboo Cheese Board Set
Don't overlook the House Ur Home Bamboo Cheese Board Set:
Pros
- The wooden board platter is a great size for displaying a variety of delicious delectables including meats, cheeses, crackers, veggies, fruit, and more. It's perfect for welcoming guests with a beautiful meat and cheese board filled with a colorful and tasty array of appetizing offerings.
- The set is a great gift option for a bridal shower, wedding anniversary, or housewarming gift. The beautiful charcuterie board gift set with all the accessories offers so many beneficial features. They'll remember you every time they use this gift!
- The 3 part magnetic function is a great feature. Strong magnetic combination can create a three-in-one cheese board set, flexibly suitable for singles, small parties, and large parties. Cheese server can also be stacked magnetically for storage.
Cons
- The forks that come with the set do not have a designated storage area.
- The set may be too large for some people's needs.
- The set may not be dishwasher safe.
Nothing new with the ubiquitous bamboo material. We did find that the board was constructed with high-quality craftsmanship and ingenuity; it even had slip-resistant tabs underneath. Additionally, the set included an extra round bamboo fruit tray for added versatility and functionality. The board was packaged beautifully and would make a great gift.
9. Large Charcuterie Cheese Board Set
The Xinyoec Large Charcuterie Boards Set for Cheese should feature on your list:
Pros
- The set includes a large rectangular charcuterie board, a cheese board, and four dinner knives, providing plenty of space for large gatherings.
- The cheese board has two hidden slide-out drawers, making it easy to store and access your utensils.
- The set is made from 100% natural bamboo, which is waterproof, highly durable, and ecologically sustainable.
Cons
- The glossy surface of the cheese plate may be prone to scratches and scuffs over time.
- The set may be a bit too large and cumbersome for smaller gatherings or intimate dinners.
- The set may not be suitable for those who prefer a more minimalist or modern aesthetic.
We found that the Xinyoec Large Charcuterie Boards Set for Cheese is a solid choice for entertaining large gatherings. The set provided ample space for all our cheeses and charcuterie and we loved the hidden drawers make it easy to store and access your utensils.
That being said, the glossy surface of the cheese plate could scratch or scuff over time, so handle with care. This set is not ideal smaller gatherings or intimate dinners, so if you don't intend to use it for large groups, it may be wasted on you.
10. ROCIRLAB Bamboo Charcuterie Boards
The practical and stylish ROCIRLAB Bamboo Charcuterie Board could be the one you are looking for:
Pros
- The removable magnetic knife block set allows the cheese knife set to remain upright and easily accessible.
- The additional tray and two ceramic bowls for dips provide more space for crackers, nuts, or fruit.
- The cheese board is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for displaying and sharing your favorite food anywhere.
Cons
- The cheese board is not dishwasher or microwave safe, so you'll need to hand wash it.
- Some areas of the board may become stained after use.
- The utensil holder is flexible, which may not be ideal for all users.
We found this cheese board had a large surface area, providing ample space for creativity which we used to the fullest. It's an instant focal point of any table, showcasing hospitality to your guests.
In addition, the personalized cheeseboard accessories are well thought out, practical, and multi-functional. The product are also packaged in a beautiful and sturdy gift box making it a great gift idea.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best cheese board, there are a few important factors to consider:
Materials
Cheese boards can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, marble, slate, and bamboo. Each material has its own unique look and feel, so it's important to choose one that suits your personal style and needs. Wooden boards are classic and versatile, while marble and slate boards offer a more modern and elegant look. Bamboo boards are eco-friendly and durable and featured heavily in our list--for a reason.
Size
The size of your cheese board will depend on how much cheese and charcuterie you plan to serve and how many people you will be serving. A smaller board may be sufficient for a small gathering, while a larger board may be necessary for a larger group. Consider the size of the cheese knives and other serving utensils when choosing a board.
Shape
Cheese boards come in rectangular, circular, and oval shapes; it's personal preference. Rectangular boards are great for serving multiple types of cheese, while circular boards are ideal for serving soft cheeses.
Features
Some cheese boards come with additional features, such as built-in compartments for crackers or a hidden drawer for cheese knives. These features can be convenient, but they may also add to the cost of the board. Consider whether these features are necessary for your needs before making a purchase.
By considering these factors, you can choose a cheese board that is both functional, cost-effective and stylish. There is a cheese board out there to suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential cheeses to include on a cheese board for a party?
When it comes to selecting cheeses for a party, we recommend including a variety of textures and flavors. A good rule of thumb is to include at least three types of cheese: a soft cheese like brie or camembert, a hard cheese like cheddar or gouda, and a blue cheese like Roquefort or gorgonzola.
How can I create an affordable yet impressive cheese board?
Creating an impressive cheese board doesn't have to break the bank. Look for affordable cheeses that still pack a lot of flavor, like goat cheese or feta. You can also include other inexpensive items like nuts, dried fruit, and crackers. Arrange everything on a simple wooden board or platter for an elegant presentation.
What are the top materials recommended for a durable and stylish cheese board?
When it comes to materials, we recommend choosing a bamboo cheese board It's not only durable but also stylish and versatile.
How do I select the perfect cheese board size for my dinner event?
The size of your cheese board will depend on the number of guests you're serving and the amount of cheese you plan to include. As a general rule, plan on serving about 2 ounces of cheese per person. If you're serving a larger group, consider using multiple smaller boards instead of one large one.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when assembling a cheese board?
One common mistake is overcrowding the board. Make sure to leave plenty of space between each item so that guests can easily access everything. Another mistake is not including enough variety. Make sure to include a mix of textures and flavors to keep things interesting.
Can you suggest some creative cheese board combinations for special occasions?
For a festive holiday cheese board, try pairing cranberry-studded goat cheese with a sharp cheddar and a creamy blue cheese. For a summer party, try a combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil. And for a fall gathering, try a mix of aged gouda, fig jam, and roasted nuts.
