Cheese Cutting Board

A guide to cheese cutting boards

A cheese cutting board is where the magic of cheese preparation takes place. Whether you’re preparing a simple snack or crafting an elaborate cheese board for your guests, the cheese cutting board lets you transform blocks into shredded cheese, cheese cubes, slices, or grated cheese. Having the right cutting board makes the work easy, safe, and pleasurable.

Cheese cutting boards come in a range of materials and shapes, and many have extra features for greater convenience. Some are beautifully designed and can double as presentation boards, while others are meant to be workhorses of the kitchen. Here’s a quick guide to choosing the right cheese cutting board, how to use it and clean it, and some tips on the best cheeses for breaking in a brand-new board.

Wisconsin cheese makes cutting and slicing a pleasure

When you’re ready to use your cheese cutting board for the first time, why not inaugurate it with some award-winning cheese from Wisconsin?

• Sartori SarVecchio Parmesan is one of Wisconsin’s most decorated cheeses, an extra-aged parmesan with a rich, nutty flavor and a granular, crystalline texture.
• Roth Grand Cru Surchoix is an alpine-style cheese inspired by traditional Swiss gruyere, that is a World Cheese Champion.
• Hook's 15-Year Cheddar is a rare, beautifully matured cheese that has a deep, bold flavor with tangy and sharp notes, accompanied by a crumbly yet creamy texture.
• Carr Valley Cheese Cave Aged Marisa is a rich, creamy cheese that’s aged for several months in caves, giving it a subtle, earthy complexity.
• Uplands Cheese Pleasant Ridge Reserve is the most awarded cheeses in the United States. It’s an artisan raw milk cheese that’s modeled after alpine cheeses.
• Widmer’s Aged Brick Cheese is a true Wisconsin original – a brick cheese known for its full, robust flavor and creamy yet firm texture.
• Cello Copper Kettle Cheese is made in a copper vat using old-world techniques to produce a cheese that’s bursting with parmesan flavor and a rich, cooked caramel finish.

All about cheese cutting boards

What is a cheese cutting board?

A cheese cutting board is a flat surface designed for cutting, preparing, and serving cheese. Unlike regular cutting boards used for general kitchen prep, cheese boards often emphasize aesthetics as much as function, since they frequently serve as part of the presentation. These boards can come in a wide variety of materials and shapes, often including features like compartments for knives, crackers, and accompaniments.

Types of cheese cutting boards

There are several types of cheese boards, each serving different needs and occasions.

• Classic wood boards are a traditional and popular choice for cutting and serving cheese. They offer a natural aesthetic and are gentle on cheese knives, making them an ideal surface for slicing delicate or hard cheeses. Wooden boards, such as those made from maple, acacia, or bamboo, are durable and naturally resistant to knife marks. However, they need regular maintenance to avoid stains and odors from absorbing into the wood.
• Marble cheese cutting boards offer an elegant and stylish look, perfect for formal events or dinner parties. Marble has the added benefit of staying cool to the touch, which helps keep soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese at a good serving temperature. Additionally, marble is non-porous, meaning it won’t absorb odors or bacteria easily. However, marble can be more prone to chipping and may dull knives over time.
• Slate cheese boards have become popular in recent years for their sleek, modern appearance. They provide a nice contrast to the colors of the cheeses, and many allow you to write on them with chalk to label the cheeses for guests. Slate is also non-porous and easy to clean, but it can be fragile and may develop cracks if not handled carefully.
• Glass cheese boards are perfect for a hygienic, easy-to-clean option. They are non-porous and dishwasher-safe. However, glass boards can dull knives faster than other materials and may shatter if dropped.
• Ceramic cheese boards offer a clean and smooth surface for cutting and serving cheese. They come in a wide variety of designs, making them popular for themed parties or special occasions. Ceramic boards can be heavy and fragile, which may make them less practical for everyday use.

Maintenance tips for your cheese cutting board

Taking care of your cheese cutting board is crucial for both hygiene and longevity, especially with wood boards. Here’s how to keep your board in top shape:

• Wooden boards should be cleaned immediately after use with warm water and mild soap. Avoid submerging them in water, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack. Regularly oil the board with food-grade mineral oil to maintain its smoothness and prevent it from drying out. Don’t use harsh chemicals or abrasives on wooden boards, as they can damage the surface.
• Marble and slate boards are easy to clean with soap and water, but they require careful handling. Avoid using acidic cleaners, as they can damage the finish. Marble and slate should also be dried immediately to avoid water spots.
• Glass and ceramic boards are typically dishwasher-safe, making them the easiest to clean. Just be sure to handle them with care to avoid chipping or breaking.

Choosing the right cheese cutting board

When picking a cheese cutting board, keep these factors in mind:

Material

The material your board is made with affects both how it works and how it looks. Wood is a great option if you want something durable that won’t harm your knives. If you're going for a fancier and sleeker look, marble or slate might be better, especially if your board will double as a serving platter for parties or special occasions.

Size

If you want a cheese cutting board that you can also serve cheese on, the size of the board should fit the occasion. A small board is ideal for a casual snack for a small group, while a larger board can hold a variety of cheeses and extras for a bigger gathering.

Shape

Cheese boards come in different shapes – rectangular, round, or even unique, rustic shapes. Rectangular boards give you more space for cutting, while round boards are good for creative cheese displays.

Extras

Some boards have grooves or sections to hold knives, crackers, or fruit. These are helpful if you use the board for serving. If you just need a basic board for cutting, a flat surface will do the job.

Ease of cleaning

Wooden boards need more care, like regular oiling, to keep them in good shape, while marble, slate, and glass boards are easier to clean and maintain. If you’ll be using your board a lot, think about how much effort you’re willing to put into cleaning and upkeep.