Ghostly Outline Halloween Board (Printable)

Dark cheeses, fruits, and veggies create a haunting silhouette perfect for festive gatherings and creative platters.

# Components:

→ Cheeses

01 - 5.3 oz activated charcoal cheddar or black waxed cheese, cubed
02 - 5.3 oz aged gouda, sliced
03 - 5.3 oz brie, cut into wedges

→ Meats (optional)

04 - 3.5 oz soppressata, sliced
05 - 3.5 oz prosciutto, folded

→ Crackers & Breads

06 - 3.5 oz black sesame crackers
07 - 3.5 oz pumpernickel bread, sliced

→ Fruits

08 - 1 cup black grapes
09 - 1 cup blackberries
10 - 0.5 cup dried figs, halved

→ Vegetables

11 - 0.5 cup black olives
12 - 0.5 cup purple carrots, sliced

→ Spreads & Dips

13 - 0.5 cup black olive tapenade
14 - 0.5 cup blackberry jam

→ Garnishes

15 - Sprigs of rosemary
16 - Edible flowers, dark or purple (optional)

# Method:

01 - On a large, dark-colored board or platter, lightly outline the shape of a ghost or bat in the center using a small bowl or parchment paper as a guide.
02 - Densely arrange meats, cheeses, crackers, breads, fruits, and vegetables around the outline, placing darkest ingredients closest to the silhouette’s edge to emphasize the shape.
03 - Leave the inside of the ghost or bat shape empty so the board shows through, forming a clear silhouette.
04 - Position small bowls of black olive tapenade and blackberry jam at corners or desired spots on the board.
05 - Fill any gaps with extra fruits, optional nuts, and garnish with rosemary sprigs and edible flowers for visual interest.
06 - Serve immediately to maintain the distinct silhouette for your guests.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's a showstopper that does the impressing for you—your guests become part of the reveal when they notice the ghostly silhouette emerging from the darkness
  • Zero cooking required means you can spend your energy on the creative arrangement instead of being stuck at the stove
  • The negative space trick is surprisingly simple once you understand it, making you look like a culinary artist without the stress
02 -
  • The negative space is not optional—it's the entire point. Resist every instinct to fill gaps. That emptiness is your canvas's way of speaking
  • Arrange everything else first, then add delicate items like prosciutto and edible flowers last, just before serving, so they don't wilt or curl during preparation
  • The board will shift slightly as people reach for items—accept this gracefully. The magic isn't in frozen perfection; it's in the story that unfolds as people enjoy it
03 -
  • For the most dramatic outline, use a dark charcoal board or even a black slate platter instead of wood—the contrast makes your ghost unmistakable
  • Chill all your cheeses and meats before arranging; they'll hold their shape better and look crisper throughout the evening
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