Breakfast Charcuterie Cups

This breakfast charcuterie cup idea transforms traditional entertaining by turning the classic charcuterie board into individual handheld portions. Perfect for brunches, showers, or any morning gathering where you want to impress without the fuss of a full table spread.

I started making these breakfast cups for my daughter's birthday brunch last spring. The guests were delighted by the personalized portions, and now this has become my signature entertaining dish for morning gatherings.

Ingredients

• Prosciutto slices: Add a perfect salty contrast to the sweet elements in the cup. Look for thinly sliced prosciutto with good marbling.
• Cantaloupe balls: Provide refreshing sweetness. Choose a ripe cantaloupe that yields slightly to pressure and has a sweet aroma at the stem end.
• Cuties or mandarin oranges: Offer bright citrus flavor and beautiful color. Select fruits that feel heavy for their size with tight peels.
• Crunchy granola bars: Broken into pieces add necessary texture contrast. The sturdy structure helps them hold up in the cups.
• Mini Brie bites or Babybel cheese: Deliver creamy richness. The small size works perfectly in these cups without overwhelming.
• Fresh berries: Blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries bring color and natural sweetness. Look for plump, firm berries without moisture.
• Donut holes: Provide that breakfast pastry element everyone loves. Fresh bakery versions work best.
• Mini cinnamon rolls: Create visual height and bring warm spice notes. They work as the anchor piece in each cup.
• Cheese straws: Add savory crunch and visual interest. The vertical element helps create dimension.
• Fresh mint: Brightens the entire presentation and adds aromatic freshness. Choose vibrant green leaves without browning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Foundation Building:

Begin with the base ingredients by placing cuties, broken granola pieces, and cheese bites into each cup. Distribute them evenly throughout the cup to create a stable foundation. This creates the base layer that other elements will build upon.

Skewer Assembly:

Prepare the various skewers using cocktail picks. For fruit skewers, alternate berries for color contrast. Create cheese and fruit combinations that balance flavors. The skewers should be short enough to stand upright in the cups without tipping over.

Prosciutto Cantaloupe Preparation:

Take each prosciutto slice and lay it completely flat on a clean work surface. Fold it lengthwise into thirds to create a long strip. Starting at one end, roll the strip loosely into a spiral shape that resembles a rose. Thread onto a skewer alternating with cantaloupe balls. Add a small mint leaf at the end for color and aroma.

Final Arrangement:

Position the prepared skewers into the cups by pushing them gently into the foundation ingredients. Arrange taller items toward the back and shorter items in front for visual appeal. Tuck sprigs of fresh mint throughout the arrangement. Place mini cinnamon rolls at the back of each cup as the anchor piece that adds height.

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The prosciutto rose skewers always get the most compliments from my guests. Something about the way the thin meat curls into a flower shape makes people think I spent hours on the presentation, when in reality it takes just seconds to roll each one.

Make Ahead Options

While these cups are best assembled the same day they'll be served, you can prep many components ahead of time. Wash and dry all berries the day before and store in paper towel-lined containers in the refrigerator. Cut cheese and prepare cantaloupe balls up to two days ahead, storing them in separate airtight containers. The morning of your event, simply assemble the cups which takes about 15 minutes for a batch of six.

Customization Ideas

These breakfast cups welcome seasonal adaptations. In summer, substitute strawberries and peaches for winter fruits. For fall gatherings, include apple slices drizzled with honey and cinnamon. The pastry elements can also change based on preference—mini muffins, small croissants, or even pieces of banana bread work beautifully. For dietary restrictions, consider dairy-free cheese alternatives or prosciutto substitutes like smoked salmon for pescatarians.

Serving Suggestions

Present these cups on a large serving tray lined with fresh greenery for a stunning presentation. They pair perfectly with mimosas or a coffee bar for brunch gatherings. Consider offering small containers of honey or maple syrup on the side for guests who prefer additional sweetness. For a complete spread, complement these individual cups with a large fruit platter and a warm egg dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you prepare the prosciutto and cantaloup skewers?

Lay the prosciutto slices flat, fold into thirds lengthwise, and roll loosely into a spiral. Skewer the rolled prosciutto with cantaloup balls and fresh mint.

→ What fruits can I include in the cups?

You can add fruits like Cuties, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, and cantaloup balls for a fresh and colorful touch.

→ What cheeses work best for charcuterie cups?

Mini Brie Bites or Babybel Cheese work wonderfully. Their individual size makes them perfect for this presentation.

→ How should the cups be arranged for the best presentation?

Layer the components, tuck mint leaves between, and position skewers and toppings like cheese straws or cinnamon rolls last for a balanced look.

→ Are there alternative options for pastries?

Mini muffins, mini croissants, or bite-sized Danish pastries can replace donut holes and cinnamon rolls if preferred.