Elegant Entertaining: Babka Wreath Grazing Board with Cheese & Spiced Cranberry Jam

Ingredients

• Babka wreath: Homemade or store-bought, flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, or chocolate

• Artisanal cheeses: Soft-ripened Brie, creamy goat cheese, aged cheddar

• Spiced cranberry jam: Homemade (recipe below) or store-bought

• Garnishes: Fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, pomegranate seeds, edible flowers

• Crackers and bread: Crostini, baguette slices, water crackers

• Optional: Nuts (walnuts, almonds), dried fruits (cranberries, apricots)

Spiced Cranberry Jam Recipe

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Combine cranberries, sugar, water, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg in a saucepan.

• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.

• Strain seeds, if desired.

Assembly

• Prepare the Babka wreath: Slice the Babka into 1-inch thick rounds.

• Arrange the cheeses: Place cheeses around the Babka wreath, varying textures and colors.

• Add spiced cranberry jam: Spoon jam into small bowls or ramekins.

• Garnish: Add fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs and pomegranate seeds.

• Add crackers and bread: Place around the board.

• Optional additions: Sprinkle nuts and dried fruits.

Tips and Variations

• Theme: Tailor your board to a specific theme, like winter wonderland or harvest-inspired.

• Color scheme: Choose cheeses, garnishes and decorations matching your desired palette.

• Fruit additions: Include sliced apples, grapes or berries.

• Meat additions: Offer prosciutto, salami or ham.

• Dips and spreads: Include hummus, tapenade or mustard.

Presentation

• Use a large, decorative platter or board.

• Create height with pedestals or boxes.

• Balance flavors, textures and colors.

• Label cheeses and jams for curious guests.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch: Pair with mimosas or bellinis.

• Holiday gathering: Offer alongside hot cocoa or mulled wine.

• Afternoon tea: Serve with herbal teas or sparkling water.