Name: Charcuterie Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups pecans; 2 cups dried fruit (like dates or apricots); 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or bocconcini; 8 ounces Havarti cheese (plain or flavored); 12 ounces sharp cheddar; 8 ounces salami; 1 cup seedless cucumber, sliced thin; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1 cup blackberries; 1 cup pickled vegetables or olives; 2 boxes of crackers

Charcuterie cups are a fun and modern twist on the classic charcuterie board. Instead of presenting everything on a large platter, I serve individual portions in cups—perfect for parties, baby showers, or any event where guests like to mix, mingle, and snack at the same time. They’re visually appealing, easy to hold, and full of flavor and variety. Charcuterie Cups

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to put together these charcuterie cups with no cooking involved. I can prepare everything ahead of time, and they’re super customizable to suit the occasion or dietary needs. They also look beautiful on a table and make entertaining feel a little more polished without much effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups pecans
2 cups dried fruit (like dates or apricots)
8 ounces mozzarella pearls or bocconcini
8 ounces Havarti cheese (plain or flavored)
12 ounces sharp cheddar
8 ounces salami
1 cup seedless cucumber, sliced thin
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup blackberries
1 cup pickled vegetables or olives
2 boxes of crackers

Directions

Prep the ingredients: I start by slicing the cheeses into cubes and cutting the salami into bite-sized or foldable pieces. I rinse and dry the fruits and vegetables to keep everything fresh and clean.
Build skewers: I make small skewers using combinations of cheese, meat, fruits, and vegetables. These help create structure inside the cup and make it easy to grab and eat.
Assemble the cups: I layer in a mix of skewers, nuts, dried fruit, and pickled items. I try to balance the colors and textures for visual appeal.
Add crackers: I tuck a few crackers into each cup or serve them separately on the side if I need more room in the cups.
Garnish: I top each one with a sprig of rosemary or another fresh herb to give a finished look and a hint of fragrance.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 16 individual charcuterie cups. I can assemble everything in about 15 minutes, especially if I’ve prepped the ingredients ahead of time. No cooking is required.

Variations

I like to switch things up based on the season or the theme of the party:

Cheese: Swap in gouda, blue cheese chunks, or spicy pepper jack.
Meats: Use capicola, bresaola, or other deli meats I have on hand.
Fruits and Veggies: I add grapes, melon, figs, bell peppers, or even pickled green beans.
Nuts: Try almonds, cashews, or spiced walnuts for variety.
Extras: Small containers of jam, honey, or grainy mustard add a gourmet touch.

Storage/Reheating

Charcuterie cups don’t need to be reheated, and they’re best served chilled or at room temperature:

Storage: I keep ingredients stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Assembling Ahead: I assemble the cups up to 2 hours before serving and keep them covered and refrigerated.
Reheating: Not necessary, as they are meant to be eaten cold.

FAQs

How far in advance can I prep charcuterie cups?

I prepare the components up to 3 days in advance and assemble the cups a couple of hours before guests arrive.

What kind of cups should I use?

I like using clear plastic or glass cups that hold 4 to 6 ounces. They’re the perfect size for a personal serving.

Can I make them vegetarian?

Yes. I just skip the meat and double up on the cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

How do I keep everything crisp and fresh?

I dry all ingredients well before assembling and avoid overly juicy fruits to prevent sogginess.

Can I include dips or spreads?

I sometimes include a small spoonful of jam, mustard, or a slice of spreadable cheese for added flavor.

Conclusion

Charcuterie cups are a stylish, mess-free way to serve appetizers at any gathering. I love that they’re simple to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress guests. Whether I’m hosting a brunch, shower, or holiday party, these little cups always disappear fast.