Make Your Own Wooden DIY Christmas Tree Dessert Board: The Perfect Hostess Gift & Holiday Hosting Essential
Christmas is hands down my favorite time of year — and not just because of the festive vibes, but also because of all the delicious food!
Nothing beats Christmas cookies in my book. I’m a firm believer in tasting every single kind (yes, all of them!).
This year, I decided to take my holiday hosting game up a notch by creating a DIY wooden Christmas tree dessert board.
It’s not only a showstopper for your own holiday parties but also makes an amazing hostess gift if you’re heading to someone else’s Christmas dinner.
Bonus: This versatile Christmas tree board doubles as a charming charcuterie board too!
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DIY Christmas Tree Dessert Board Supplies:
- Ornamental Trim Piece (for the topper)
- Stain Grade Board
- 1×4 Scrap Board
- Food Grade Conditioner/Oil
- Minwax Stain Marker
Step 1: Create Your Wooden Christmas Tree Shape
Start by tracing your Christmas tree shape onto the wood board.
I used a level to draw straight pencil lines — no complicated math needed for this fun holiday project!
To cut out the tree, I used a circular saw, but a jigsaw works perfectly too.
After cutting, sand the edges with 220-grit sandpaper until everything feels smooth and splinter-free.
Step 2: Stain Your Christmas Tree Board
While you technically shouldn’t put wood on stained surfaces without sealing, I wanted to add some festive contrast by staining areas where food won’t touch.
Using a stain pen made it easy to get into the detailed topper and along the edges of the tree and trunk.
If you prefer regular stain and a rag, just be sure to tape off the top surface to prevent any bleeding.
Step 3: Apply Food-Grade Oil & Conditioner
Every charcuterie or dessert board needs protection!
Applying a food-safe oil and conditioner keeps your board from drying out, cracking, and protects it from moisture.
I like to apply two coats with a clean cloth, letting it dry overnight for best results (though a couple of hours works if you’re in a hurry).
This step ensures your board stays beautiful and safe for serving treats.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Adding a decorative topper and trunk is totally optional but adds that extra festive flair.
I glued an ornate trim piece to the top of my tree and attached a 4-inch scrap 1×4 piece as the trunk using wood glue.
For extra durability, especially if your board will get heavy use, consider pocket screws for the trunk attachment.
Why You’ll Love This DIY Christmas Tree Dessert Board
This project is one of the easiest and cutest holiday DIYs I’ve ever done!
It cost me less than $25 to make, and I can’t wait to gift one to my mom this season.
Wrap it with a festive ribbon and give it as-is or pair it with homemade (or store-bought) Christmas cookies for an unforgettable hostess gift.
It’s the perfect “something special” to elevate any Christmas gathering — whether you’re hosting or gifting!
Got a favorite Christmas cookie recipe? Drop it in the comments — I’d love to try it out!
Everything you need to make your own:
You Might Also Like These Christmas Projects:
Traditional Christmas Staircase Garland Ideas
Homemade Christmas Decorations That Don’t Look Cheap
How to Make a Wooden Christmas Tree
How To Make Garland For Christmas: That’s Free!
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