Charcuterie Pinata Ball

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Take your grazing boards to the next level with this creative charcuterie pinata ball. All your favorite edible meats and cheeses in a fun and delicious presentation for your next party. 

The traditional charcuterie spread is usually carefully crafted on a board or on a long piece of butcher paper for larger groups. But like all trends, it’s fun to riff on the original idea.

This pinata ball is new to the game and I am in love with this concept! It’s as much fun as our Charcuterie Bouquet, Salami Roses and Bacon Roses.

These are such a fun party idea, and could easily be incorporated with other party foods if you don’t want to go with a full-blown charcuterie meat and cheese tray. 

This unique charcuterie idea could also be used for New Year’s celebrations. You could have your own “ball drop” right in the house. 

What You Need for Charcuterie Pinatas 

Ingredients 

• Fruit: strawberries, pineapple chunks, blackberries, olives
• Herbs: Rosemary and thyme sprigs
• Meats: Salami and prosciutto
• Cheese: Colby and pepper jack 

To Make the Ball:

• Jute cord  
• Small styrofoam craft ball 
• Plastic wrap
• Wooden toothpicks 

How to Make a Charcuterie Ball 

Cut 4 pieces of jute cord, each piece 3 feet long. Tie them together with a knot on one end. 

Wrap the styrofoam ball with plastic wrap and place it on top of the knot. Bring the cords up around the ball, tying a knot at the top so it stays in place. Try to make sure there is equal space between the jute strings.

Section 1 – Add an olive onto a toothpick, followed by a folded piece of salami. Secure it into the top of the ball. Repeat until this section is fully covered. 

Section 2 – Place a sprig of rosemary down the center, and surround it with prosciutto roses and cheese cubes. Attach each piece individually with toothpicks. 

Section 3 – Add a couple of thyme sprigs to the center of the section. Use the strawberry halves to cover the bottom of the sprigs to form a vase shape. Then fill in the open spaces with pineapple, securing everything with toothpicks. 

Section 4 – Use the remaining berries and cheese cubes to fill in the space. 

Place the charcuterie ball as centerpiece on your table or suspend it over the table. 

Tips for Making and Variations 

• Meats: You can use any meat you like. You’ll want to keep them cold before attaching to the ball because it helps them to stay together better. Ham, turkey, and pepperoni are all great options.
• Fruits: Adding various colors makes charcuterie spreads pop, so feel free to add in other fruits such as blueberries, grapes, and oranges. You want to stay away from apples and bananas as they have a tendency to turn brown really quickly when sitting out. 
• Depending on the size of your styrofoam ball, you can make any size you would like. 
• Use toothpicks that have a blunted end so guests don’t stick themselves when they go in for a snack. 

What to Serve with Charcuterie 

Even though charcuterie is primarily meat and cheese finger foods, you can pair them with other party snacks and appetizers for a heartier snack or meal. Here are some of our favorites to serve with charcuterie:

• Creamy Whipped Feta Dip {4 Ingredients}
• Instant Pot Popcorn
• The BEST Classic Cheese Ball Recipe
• Neiman Marcus Dip (Million Dollar Dip)
• 6-Ingredient Fiesta Salad

**Save Charcuterie Ball Recipe for Later**