How to Make an Oktoberfest Charcuterie Board

When you think of Oktoberfest, beer probably comes to mind. But the occasion wouldn’t be complete without a few snacks to go along with your frothy beer-filled steins. To celebrate Oktoberfest this year, we’ve created a tempting charcuterie board featuring crowd-pleasing cheeses, salty pretzels, and tangy mustards for dipping. Add this festive cheese and sausage board to your appetizer menu this September in honor of everyone’s favorite beer-drinking holiday!

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Oktoberfest Charcuterie Board

Creating an Oktoberfest-themed charcuterie board is a no-brainer because many foods associated with the holiday are already perfect for grazing. To make this board, you'll need five main types of foods: sausages, cheeses, mustard, pickles, and pretzels. To arrange your board, start with the meats and cheeses first, then fill in the open spaces with pretzels, dishes of mustard, and pickles. If there's leftover space, add some veggies and herbs for garnish. Check out our recommendations for the best Oktoberfest ingredients below:

1. German Sausages

german sausages on a plate with dipping sauces

On a traditional charcuterie board, you would normally provide an assortment of cured meats. Since our board is Oktoberfest-themed, we’ll use German sausages instead. These savory sausages are a staple of Oktoberfest cuisine and will add an authentic touch to your charcuterie board. We recommend slicing the sausages into bite-sized rounds so they can be scooped up on a pretzel and dipped in gooey beer cheese. Choose two to three types of sausages from this list:

  • Bratwurst: A classic German sausage made from pork or a combination of pork and veal. Bratwurst is seasoned with a blend of spices like nutmeg, ginger, and white pepper, giving it a distinct flavor that pairs well with mustard and sauerkraut.
  • Weisswurst: A traditional Bavarian sausage made with finely ground veal and pork. Weisswurst is delicately seasoned with parsley, lemon, and other spices, creating a mild and slightly sweet taste that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter sausage option.
  • Knockwurst: A shorter and plumper sausage made from a combination of beef and pork. Knockwurst is seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other spices, giving it a robust and smoky flavor that is delicious when paired with a strong mustard.
  • Landjager: A dried and smoked sausage that is popular in southern Germany. Landjäger is made from a blend of beef and pork and is seasoned with garlic, caraway seeds, and other spices. Its slightly chewy texture and rich flavor make it a great addition to any charcuterie board.
  • Thuringer Rostbratwurst: Originating from the Thuringia region of Germany, this sausage is known for its coarsely ground pork and beef mixture seasoned with marjoram, garlic, and other spices. Thüringer Rostbratwurst has a bold and savory taste that pairs well with tangy mustards and pickles.

2. Cheeses

different kinds of cheeses on a board

To narrow down the types of cheeses, we'll go with options that are popular in Germany and complement Oktoberfest foods. Choose three to four of these cheeses and start filling in the space around your sausages:

  • Beer Cheese Dip: Beer cheese dip is a creamy and flavorful spread made with a combination of sharp cheddar cheese, beer, and seasonings. The addition of beer gives it a unique tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich and savory taste of the cheese.
  • Camembert: This creamy and soft cheese originated in France but is also popular in Germany. Its rich and buttery flavor pairs well with meats and hearty bread.
  • Limburger: Known for its pungent aroma, Limburger is a semi-soft cheese with a strong taste. Its bold flavor profile makes it a standout addition to any charcuterie board.
  • Allgauer Emmental: This German version of Emmental cheese has the characteristic holes and nutty flavor that Swiss cheese is known for. Its mild yet distinct taste complements a variety of meats and crackers.
  • Bavarian Blue: A creamy blue cheese with a tangy and sharp flavor, Bavarian Blue adds a pop of color and taste to your charcuterie board. Its creamy texture contrasts nicely with the other cheeses and meats.
  • Tilsit: Tilsit is a semi-hard cheese with a slightly tangy and buttery taste. Its smooth texture and mild flavor make it a versatile option for pairing with different meats and accompaniments.

3. Pretzels, Crackers, and Bread

pretzels laid out on a board

Pretzels are an Oktoberfest staple! Try experimenting with pretzels of different sizes and textures and don't forget to include a soft pretzel option, which is a customer favorite.

  • Soft Pretzel Bites: Instead of full-size Bavarian soft pretzels, try a bite-sized option that's perfect for sharing. These miniature soft pretzels are easy to pop into your mouth and can be paired with a variety of dips and spreads for added flavor.
  • Pretzel Sticks: These elongated pretzels are perfect for dipping into mustards and spreads, giving you more ways to enjoy the snacks on this charcuterie board.
  • Pretzel Chips: If you're looking for a lighter option, pretzel chips are a great choice. Top off these thin and crispy pretzels with a slice of cheese and a dill pickle chip.
  • Rye Crackers: Rye crackers are a classic German-inspired choice. Their slightly nutty flavor and hearty texture make them a great vehicle for spreading creamy cheeses or layering with slices of sausage.
  • Pumpernickel Bread: Pumpernickel bread is a traditional German bread that adds a rustic touch to your charcuterie board. Its dense and slightly sweet flavor pairs well with smoked sausages, mustard, and pickles. Cut the pumpernickel bread into slices or cubes to make it easier for your guests to enjoy with the other offerings on the board.

4. Mustard

bowl of yellow mustard

You can't serve German sausages and pretzels without some type of mustard nearby. A classic condiment, this tangy dip is a necessary addition to your Oktoberfest charcuterie board. Try including a sweet option and a spicy option:

  • Dijon Mustard: This classic mustard is a staple in German cuisine and adds a touch of sophistication to any charcuterie board. Its smooth texture and slightly spicy flavor make it a versatile condiment that pairs well with a variety of meats and cheeses.
  • Sweet Bavarian Mustard: If you prefer a milder option, sweet Bavarian mustard is the way to go. Made with a blend of mustard seeds, sugar, and spices, this mustard offers a sweet and tangy taste that complements savory meats.
  • Whole-Grain Mustard: For a more rustic and textured option, whole-grain mustard is a great choice. This mustard is made with whole mustard seeds, giving it a slightly crunchy texture and a robust flavor that pairs well with hearty sausages and aged cheeses.
  • Spicy Beer Mustard: To add a kick of heat to your charcuterie board, consider including a spicy beer mustard. Made with mustard seeds, beer, and spices, this mustard offers a bold and zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with smoked meats and sharp cheeses.
  • Horseradish Mustard: If you're looking for a mustard with a bit of bite, try horseradish mustard. The combination of mustard and horseradish creates a pungent and spicy flavor that complements rich and fatty meats like bratwurst.

5. Pickles

bowl of pickles displayed on a board

This charcuterie board is not complete without a sampling of pickles. Fill in the remaining space on your board with dishes of pickles from this list:

  • Dill Pickles: Crisp and tangy, dill pickles are a classic choice for any charcuterie board. Their savory flavor pairs well with a variety of meats and cheeses, making them a versatile option.
  • Sweet Gherkins: These little gems are a crowd-pleasing option thanks to their miniature size. Sweet gherkins have a sweet and tangy flavor and a satisfying crunch that makes them ideal for snacking.
  • Cornichons: Similar to gherkins, these pickles are made with tiny cucumbers. They're known for their tart and tangy flavor.
  • Beer Pickles: For a fun and festive twist, consider adding beer pickles to your Oktoberfest charcuterie board. Made with beer brine, these pickles have a unique flavor profile that complements the savory flavors of the meats and cheeses.
  • Spicy Pickles: For those who like a little heat, spicy pickles are a great addition to an Oktoberfest charcuterie board. The kick of spice adds a bold flavor that can enhance the overall taste experience.

6. Veggies and Garnishes

bowl of sauerkraut as a side dish

If you have some space left on your board, it's time to add in the little extras that will take your charcuterie to the next level. Try these popular German veggies and garnishes:

  • Sauerkraut: A dish of sauerkraut is a must for a German-themed charcuterie board. You could also try a twist on the classic dish by making a sauerkraut dip that's easier for communal grazing.
  • Radishes: Did you know that raw radishes are a popular German food? Radishes not only add a pop of color to your board but also offer a refreshing and peppery bite. They're a great palate cleanser between bites of charcuterie.
  • Cucumber Slices: Top a mini slice of pumpernickel bread with spreadable cheese and a fresh cucumber slice. Simple yet delicious!
  • Apple Slices: Thinly sliced apples, particularly tart varieties like Granny Smith, provide a sweet and crisp component that pairs well with the richness of the charcuterie. They also add a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors.
  • Dill Sprigs: Fresh dill sprigs add a touch of greenery to your board. They also provide an aromatic element that elevates the overall presentation.

Adding an Oktoberfest-themed charcuterie board to your restaurant menu this fall is a smart move that can attract customers and boost your profits. The beauty of a charcuterie board lies in its versatility and appeal to a wide range of tastes. You can adapt charcuterie trends to create boards of many different themes. By incorporating traditional German flavors and ingredients like bratwurst, sauerkraut, mustard, and pretzels, you can create a unique Oktoberfest-inspired spread that will entice customers looking for a taste of the season.

Posted in: Recipes|By Michale LeRoy
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