If you're someone who loves hosting, entertaining, or indulging in a variety of flavors, you're in the right place. In this post, we'll dive into the best crackers for charcuterie boards to ensure your next cheese board is packed with the perfect textures and flavors.
From buttery classics to gluten free crackers, we'll explore a variety of options that will elevate your charcuterie boards to new levels.
Charcuterie boards are more than just a trend, they're a culinary delight that makes for easy entertaining. These boards offer a diverse selection of flavors and textures. From the best cheeses for charcuterie to sliced meats, fruits, spreads, and more, the options are almost endless when creating your own cheese board.
While an easy charcuterie board makes for a great appetizer, you can get creative and put together a real conversation starter. This Mexican charcuterie board or these charcuterie cones are not only delicious, but spark a great conversation! There are so many unique charcuterie board ideas that work for any occasion.
How do I choose crackers that complement the flavors of my charcuterie board?
Pairing crackers with your charcuterie ingredients is an art. But don't worry, it's much easier than you think! Butter crackers go best with creamy cheese while crisps go better with bold cheeses and meats. Mini toasts work great for delicate toppings like smokes salmon or goat cheese while pita crackers pair well with anything Mediterranean style.
For those of you who know me, you know I prefer to make a gluten free charcuterie board. Gluten free crackers are typically made with almond flour or other seed blends which offer a crunchy backdrop to a variety of flavors.
What are the best crackers to include in a charcuterie board?
When making the perfect charcuterie board, there aren't any set rules to which ingredients you should or should not include. The best thing to do is consider your guests preferences and include a variety of options. This way, your board is guaranteed to impress, offering a selection of textures and flavors.
Buttery crackers
Crackers so delicate that they practically dissolve on your tongue are never a bad idea. Brands like Carr's, Toasteds, and Ritz crackers have perfected this classic, offering variations from traditional to whole wheat flour, each one delivering that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Butter crackers provide a neutral base that allows the accompanying flavor to shine. Pair with creamy cheeses or a sharp cheddar, and you've created a bite that's sophisticated yet comforting.
Crispy crackers
Crisps are thin, crunchy, and often infused with exciting flavors. Classic sea salt crisps enhance the natural flavors of aged cheeses and cured meats while rosemary crisps bring a fragrant herbal note. Brands like Lesley Stowe’s Raincoast Crisps are popular brands that offer combinations like fig and olive, or apricot and ginger.
With a satisfying crunch in every bite, crisps are perfect for adding texture and excitement to your charcuterie board. You can't go wrong with any brand of crispy cracker but Triscuit, Wheat Things, and Nut Thins are a few more popular brands.
Mini toasts
Enter the sphere of sophistication with mini toasts – small, round slices of bread that are toasted to golden perfection. These little gems provide a sturdy base for various toppings like bruschetta, soft cheeses, figs, smoked gouda, pesto, brie and honey, or anything else your heart desires. I like to compliment the toasty cracker with a soft, delicate topping for a balance of textures.
Pita crackers
Inspired by traditional Middle Eastern flatbreads, pita chips have a satisfying crunch and a slightly nutty flavor. Pita crackers are versatile, pairing wonderfully with hummus, tzatziki, or any Mediterranean dip of your choice.
Their sturdy structure allows them to hold up to a variety of toppings, making them a great choice for those who prefer a heartier bite. The creamy, garlicky goodness of hummus meeting the crisp perfection of pita is a match made in heaven.
Gluten free options
Gluten-free crackers are available in a multitude of flavors and textures, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the charcuterie experience. Brands like Mary's Gone Crackers and Simple Mills offer gluten-free options ranging from almond flour-based crackers to those made with seeds and whole grains.
These crackers have the same crunchy texture as their gluten-containing, making them an essential addition to any charcuterie board. Accommodating dietary restrictions has never been so delicious.
Because there are so many options, I like to mix and match crackers within the gluten free category. Pair buttery gluten free crackers with crispy gluten free crackers or throw in some gluten free toasts. The choice is up to you! If you have the time to make your own, my favorite crackers are homemade gluten free crackers.
Other
- Rice crackers - These light and crispy crackers come in various flavors, such as seaweed or sesame seeds, adding an Asian-inspired touch to your next charcuterie board.
- Pretzel thins - Thin pretzel crisps add a salty and crunchy element to your board. They are the right crackers for dipping into spreads or pairing with any type of cheese..
- Sourdough crackers - Sourdough crackers have a tangy flavor and a slightly chewy texture, making them an excellent choice for hard cheeses, especially with sharp cheeses.
- Crostini - These small, thin slices of toasted baguette bring a rustic charm to your board, making them the perfect addition. They have a mild flavor and can be brushed with olive oil and seasoned with herbs for extra flavor or paired with different types of cheese.
- Multigrain crackers - Multigrain crackers come in a variety of crackers including herb crackers. These crunchy crackers make a great addition to a good charcuterie board and go great with mild cheeses.
Where's the best place to buy charcuterie crackers?
You can find all types of crackers at your local grocery store but I love going to Trader Joe if I want a variety. Trader Joes also has a variety of cheeses, fresh fruit, meats, and anything else your charcuterie board might need.
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