Best Crackers for a Charcuterie Board
A well-curated charcuterie board is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. One essential component of any charcuterie board is the humble cracker. The right cracker can elevate the experience, complementing the cheeses, meats, and other accompaniments. Here are our top types of crackers, along with recommended brands and links for purchase.
Water Crackers
Why They’re Great: Water crackers are neutral in flavor, making them a versatile option that pairs well with a variety of cheeses and meats. Their crisp texture adds a pleasant crunch without overpowering the other elements on the board. Some of our favorites are:
- Carr’s Table Water Crackers – These classic crackers are thin and crispy, perfect for highlighting the flavors of high-quality cheeses and charcuterie.
- 34 Degrees Rosemary Crisps – A great option that pairs well with any topping.
- 365 Everyday Value Water Crackers – Affordable and versatile, these crackers are ideal for any charcuterie board.
Seeded Crackers
Why They’re Great: Seeded crackers add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your charcuterie board. The seeds provide a nutty taste and a satisfying crunch that pairs well with both mild and strong cheeses. Some examples are:
- Mary’s Gone Crackers Original – These organic, gluten-free crackers are packed with seeds and have a robust, earthy flavor.
- Doctor Kracker Seeded Spelt – These crackers have a hearty texture and a nutty flavor, perfect for pairing with cheeses.
Butter Crackers
Why They’re Great: Butter crackers are rich and slightly sweet, offering a delicate flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory cheeses and cured meats. Some of our picks are:
- Keebler Club Crackers – These light and flaky crackers have a buttery taste that enhances the flavors of both mild and strong cheeses.
- Ritz Crackers – A classic choice with a slightly sweet, buttery flavor that pairs well with a variety of toppings.
- Town House Original Crackers – These crackers are light, flaky, and buttery, making them an excellent complement to both mild and bold cheeses.
Artisan Crackers
Why They’re Great: Artisan crackers offer unique flavors and textures that can elevate your charcuterie board to the next level. Our favorites are:
- Rustic Bakery Organic Sourdough Flatbreads – These crackers are handmade with organic ingredients and have a delicious, tangy flavor that pairs well with a variety of cheeses and meats.
- Jennifer’s Homemade Breadsticks – These crackers are made in small batches with high-quality ingredients, offering a perfect balance of flavor and crunch.
- La Panzanella Croccantini, Rosemary – These artisan crackers are infused with rosemary, adding a delightful fragrance and flavor to your charcuterie board.
Crisps
Why They’re Great: Fig crisps offer a sweet and savory flavor profile that complements both cheeses and cured meats, adding a unique twist to your charcuterie board. Some of our favorite crisp options are:
- Lesley Stowe Raincoast Crisps, Fig & Olive – These crisps have a delightful combination of sweet figs and savory olives, providing a perfect balance of flavors.
- Trader Joe’s Fig & Olive Crisps – A great balance of sweet and savory, perfect for pairing with a variety of cheeses.
- 34 Degrees Fig & Black Sesame Crisps – Light and crispy with a unique flavor, these crisps are great for charcuterie boards.
Gluten-Free Artisan Crackers
Why They’re Great: Gluten-free artisan crackers provide an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste or texture. Some of the options are:
- Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers – Made with wholesome ingredients, these gluten-free crackers have a delicious, nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of cheeses and meats.
- Milton’s Craft Bakers Gluten Free Crackers – These crackers are flavorful and have a great texture, perfect for any charcuterie board.
- Blue Diamond Almond Nut-Thins – Light and crispy with a subtle nutty flavor, these crackers are ideal for gluten-free options.
Pita Crackers
Why They’re Great: Pita crackers are sturdy and versatile, making them ideal for dipping and pairing with a variety of cheeses and spreads. Some of our favorites are:
- Stacy’s Pita Chips – These pita chips are perfectly seasoned and have a satisfying crunch that complements both creamy and hard cheeses.
- Trader Joe’s Pita Bite Crackers – Great texture and flavor, ideal for pairing with hummus and cheese.
- Town House Pita Crackers – Lightly salted and crispy, these chips are a great addition to any charcuterie board.
Crostini
Why They’re Great: Crostini are small, toasted bread slices that offer a sturdy base for toppings, making them ideal for spreads, cheeses, and meats. Our picks are:
- Asturi Bruschettini Classico – These traditional Italian crostini are perfectly toasted and have a light, crispy texture that pairs well with a variety of charcuterie board components.
- Alessi Garlic Toasts – These crostini are flavored with garlic, adding an extra layer of taste to your charcuterie board.
- Mantova Crostini – These crostini are sturdy and flavorful, making them perfect for various toppings.
Incorporating a variety of these crackers on your charcuterie board will ensure a delightful mix of textures and flavors, enhancing the overall experience for your guests. Happy snacking!