Board Basics: The 15 Best Crackers for a Charcuterie Board

Our Favorite Crackers for Charcuterie Boards

If you want to be the star of a potluck or dinner party but are short on time, we have the perfect idea: a charcuterie board. For the uninitiated, charcuterie really just translates to “cooked flesh” (how appetizing!), though the amuse-bouche has become more elaborate in the Instagram age. Think communal platters decked out with nuts, jam, meats, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables. It’s elegant, takes little skill, and comes together faster than you can say soppressata. And we’re going to make the process even easier by providing a list of the best crackers for the perfect charcuterie board.

1. Herb Crackers

Best with: Flavorful, soft cheeses

Try: Town House Flatbread Crisps, Italian Herb

With their delicate blend of herbs, herb crackers will help balance the strong flavors of brie, camembert, and other soft and semi-soft cheeses that pack a punch. Consumers rave about this particular brand, calling them “superb” and “out of this world.”

2. Water Crackers

Best with: Most cheeses

Try: Carr’s Original Table Water Crackers

A water biscuit or water cracker is a thin, savory cracker that pairs well with most types of cheese, meat, and dip thanks to its mild flavor. For the gold standard, go with Carr’s Original, which should be available at most national grocery stores.

3. Butter Crackers

Best with: Most cheeses

Try: Ritz Original Crackers

For a flakier, richer experience, consider butter crackers. As anyone who has tasted a Ritz knows, these melt-in-your-mouth rounds are as versatile as you can get. Slather them with Boursin, dip them in Nutella, or just eat them plain — it doesn’t matter. They hit the spot every time.

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4. Multigrain Crackers

Best with: Cheddar and smoked gouda

Try: Milton’s Original Multigrain

Bring a healthy twist to your spread with multigrain crackers. Their robust flavor and hearty texture pair excellently with cheddar cheese and smoked gouda. A perfect choice for guests who appreciate a more nutritious option.

Related: 15 Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board Ideas to Kick You Into Holiday Feast Mode

5. Vegetable Crackers

Best with: Most cheeses

Try: Breton Garden Vegetable Crackers

Not only are vegetable crackers often healthier, but they’re also more flavorful than plain crackers, seeing as they’re usually made using real veggies. Breton garden crackers are a hit with Redditors, with multiple r/Cheese members endorsing them.

Related: The Best Trader Joe's Cheeses, According to a Professional Cheesemonger

6. Crostini

Best with: Soft cheeses and cured meats

Try: Make them yourself

These aren’t crackers, but a charcuterie list wouldn’t be complete without including these crispy slices of bread. We suggest making them yourself, as the process is simple. All you need is a baguette, olive oil, salt, and around 20 minutes of free time. The recipe blog Love & Lemons suggests spreading them with creamy goat cheese or whipped feta, though they’re incredibly versatile and should complement most charcuterie boards.

7. Fruit Crackers

Best with: Flavorful, intense cheeses

Try: Trader Joe's Fig and Olive crisps

Fruit crackers are a delightful choice for those who enjoy a sweet and savory combination. Their fruity undertones complement intense, flavorful cheeses, adding an unexpected twist to your cheese board.

8. Pita Chips

Best with: Dips, spreads, and creamy cheeses

Try: Stacy's Pita Chips

Pita Chips are the perfect addition to any charcuterie board, especially when paired with dips, spreads, and creamy cheeses. Their distinctively crisp texture and slightly nutty flavor make them an excellent choice for scooping up rich, creamy spreads or complementing the smoothness of soft cheeses.

9. Crispbread

Best with: Most cheeses

Try: Wasa Multigrain Crispbread

Made from rye flour, crispbread offers a light, crunchy base that allows your cheese to shine, making it a popular choice for charcutiers who want their spreads and toppings to take the spotlight.

10. Saltine Crackers

Best with: Aged cheeses like sharp cheddar

Try: Premium Original Saltine Crackers

They may not be sophisticated, but saltine crackers are ideal for aged cheeses with their plain taste and satisfying crunch. Their simplicity complements the complex flavors of mature cheeses, creating a perfect balance on your palate.

11. Pretzel Crisps

Best with: Soft cheeses

Try: Trader Joe's Pretzel Slims

Pretzel Crisps combine the traditional pretzel flavor with a crisp, cracker-like chip. They are particularly delicious with soft cheeses, which benefit from the cracker’s saltiness and crunchy texture.

12. Taralli

Best with: Cured meats

Try: Flora Imported Taralli

You may have never heard of or seen taralli before, but this Italian snack isn’t as exotic as it looks. Made from wheat, these twists are essentially just grissini breadsticks and are typically served alongside cheese and cold cuts.

13. Gluten-Free Crackers

Best with: Most cheeses

Try: Blue Diamond Almond-Nut Thins

Accommodate a wide range of guests by including gluten-free crackers on your charcuterie board. The best of these don’t compromise on flavor. One fan calls Blue Diamond’s almond-nut thins — made from rice flour and topped with almonds — “crunchy and addicting.”But you don’t have to settle for just one type of cracker if you’re sensitive to gluten. There are plenty of alternatives, including gluten-free saltine clones, almond flour crackers, and a whole host of other grain-free delights.

14. Croccantini

Best with: Soft cheeses and cured meats

Try: La Panzanella, Original Sea Salt

Looking for artisanal crackers? La Panzanella's Croccantini offer a light, crispy texture that pairs exquisitely with the creamy richness of soft cheeses and the savory depth of cured meats. Their subtly salted surface enhances the flavors of your toppings, making them a sophisticated and irresistible choice for any gourmet spread. Whether you're hosting an elegant soiree or a casual get-together, these flat bread-like crackers are sure to be a hit among your guests.

15. Whole Wheat Crackers

Best with: Hard cheeses

Try: Whole Grain Wheat Thins

Whole Wheat Crackers bring a nutty, nourishing element to your cheese board. Their wholesome flavor and texture pair excellently with a variety of hard cheeses, making them a health-conscious yet delicious choice.

How To Arrange Crackers on a Charcuterie Board

Start by choosing a variety of crackers that complement the flavors of your meats and cheeses. Place them around the board in small groups or lined up along the edges for easy access. Be sure to intersperse crackers between different cheeses and meats to create a visually interesting platter and to encourage guests to try different combinations.

Other Charcuterie Board Tips

1. Balance Flavors and Textures: When selecting items for your charcuterie board, aim for a balance of flavors and textures. Include a mix of soft and hard cheeses, a variety of meats (like prosciutto, salami, and mortadella), and add sweet elements like fruit or honey. This variety ensures that there is something for every palate.
2. Incorporate Fresh Ingredients: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs can add color and freshness to your board. Grapes, berries, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices not only look beautiful but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the meats and cheeses.
3. Offer a Range of Spreads and Dips: Include small bowls of spreads and dips like mustard, hummus, or fig jam. These can enhance the flavors of your crackers and cheese, and add an extra layer of taste to each bite.
4. Mind the Presentation: Remember that the presentation is key. Use a large enough board to allow for spacing between items. Group similar items together and consider the color and texture when placing each element. Garnish with edible flowers or sprigs of rosemary for a touch of elegance.
5. Label Your Selections: If you're including a variety of cheeses and meats, consider labeling them. This is especially helpful for guests with dietary restrictions or preferences. Small labels or flags can make it easier for everyone to navigate and enjoy the board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Ritz crackers good for charcuterie boards?

Yes, Ritz crackers are a popular choice for charcuterie boards due to their buttery flavor and delicate texture. They pair well with a variety of cheeses and meats, adding a familiar and comforting taste to your spread.

What crackers go with cheese and meat?

For a harmonious balance with both cheese and meat, opt for crackers that are not too overpowering in flavor. Multigrain crackers, water crackers, and rye crackers are excellent choices. They offer a subtle taste that complements a wide range of cheeses and cured meats.

What crackers go with brie?

Brie, with its creamy and mild flavor, pairs wonderfully with a variety of crackers. Opt for something light and buttery, like water crackers or crostini. You can also experiment with fruit crackers for a sweet and savory combination.

What are the best gluten-free crackers for a charcuterie board?

The best gluten-free crackers for a charcuterie board should be sturdy enough to hold toppings and flavorful enough to complement your selection of cheeses and meats. Look for options like almond flour crackers, rice crackers, or multigrain gluten-free crackers.