A well-built cheese board is one of summer’s simplest pleasures—no oven, no fuss, just good ingredients and great company. Whether you're entertaining guests or curating a quiet moment for yourself, a thoughtfully arranged board can feel like an occasion all on its own.
This summer, we’re elevating the classics with bold pairings, seasonal produce, and a few unexpected flavor twists—courtesy of our signature candied pecans. From sweet to spicy to smoky, these pairings are designed to enchant every bite and make your board unforgettable!
Board Basics — A Guide to Get Started
Building a cheese board doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is balance—combining textures, flavors, and colors that complement one another. Here’s what you’ll want on deck:
Cheeses: Aim for variety. Soft cheeses like brie or chèvre bring creaminess, while aged cheddar or manchego add depth and a bit of bite. A blue cheese or washed rind can introduce a funkier note for adventurous palates.
Proteins: Salami, prosciutto, or smoked meats add savory richness and heartiness.
Fresh Produce: Seasonal fruits like juicy peaches, sweet cherries, or crisp cucumbers bring brightness and freshness.
Crunch: Crackers, baguette slices, or pita chips work as a blank, sturdy canvas for your toppings.
Sweet & Savory Touch: This is where our candied pecans shine, adding unexpected texture and wonderful flavor that elevate the whole experience.
With these essentials, you’re ready to create a board that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious—and perfectly suited to the summer season.
Meet Our Flavors And Their Pairing BFFs
Our candied pecans bring the perfect sweet, spicy, or smoky crunch to your cheese board. From the buttery warmth of The Classic to the bold heat of The Spicy, the savory zing of The Everything, the smoky depth of The Mesquite, and the bright zest of The Spark, each flavor adds a unique twist that elevates every bite. Below, you’ll find pairing ideas that bring out the best in every flavor for an unforgettable summer spread.
The Classic
Toasty and buttery with just the right amount of sweetness, Fortune Favors The Classic pecans are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They pair beautifully with creamy cheeses like brie or camembert, which balance their richness perfectly. Add fresh strawberries or apple slices for a bright, juicy contrast, and serve alongside crunchy baguette slices or simple crackers to complete your bite.
The Spicy
With its sweet heat and bold cayenne kick, The Spicy pecans bring a fiery twist to your board. Pair them with pepper jack or a sharp cheddar to match the heat, and balance the spice with juicy mango slices or tangy citrus. Dark chocolate is a natural partner here—its rich bitterness cools the fire and adds a luxurious layer to every bite.
The Everything
Savory and satisfying with a hint of garlic and a touch of salt, The Everything brings a craveable, all-day-snack kind of flavor. Pair it with creamy cheeses like chèvre or labneh, fresh veggies like cucumber or snap peas, and crisp crackers for a combo that’s clean, bright, and totally snackable.
The Mesquite
Smoky and slightly sweet with a warm depth, The Mesquite brings a touch of campfire richness to your board. Pair it with aged gouda or smoked cheddar to match its intensity, and layer in grilled peaches or dried figs for a little sweetness. Add toasted nuts or smoked almonds for extra crunch—and don’t be surprised if it becomes the favorite bite of the night.
The Spark
A little spicy, a little citrusy, and totally vibrant—The Spark lights up your board with gochugaru heat and zesty brightness. Try it with creamy cheeses like chèvre or burrata to mellow the spice, and pair with orange slices, grilled pineapple, or tart berries for a juicy contrast. Serve with crisp crostini or rice crackers to keep the focus on the flavor.
Ready to Build Your Own?
Bookmark this page for inspiration any time these—these pairings are here to inspire easy, elevated moments. Use them as a guide, mix and match what you have on hand, and most importantly—don't forget to have fun with it.
We’d love to see what you create! Tag us @fortunefavorsnuts or send a photo our way!
