Best Wood for Cutting Boards: Walnut vs. Maple vs. Cherry

When it comes to choosing a cutting board, the type of wood matters just as much as the craftsmanship. A well-made board not only protects your knives but also lasts for years — and even becomes a centrepiece in your kitchen. At Deer Park Woodwork, we handcraft boards using premium hardwoods like walnut, maple, and cherry. Each has its own look, feel, and advantages.

In this guide, we’ll compare walnut vs. maple vs. cherry so you can decide which is best for your kitchen.

Walnut Cutting Boards

Appearance: Dark, rich chocolate-brown tones with striking grain patterns.
Durability: Walnut is a hardwood but slightly softer than maple, which means it’s easier on your knives.
Best for: Home cooks who want a premium, elegant look. Walnut hides knife marks better than lighter woods and adds warmth to any kitchen.
Why choose walnut? It’s the go-to for those who want a luxury cutting board that doubles as a serving piece for charcuterie or steak.

Maple Cutting Boards

Appearance: Light cream to golden tones, giving a clean, timeless look.
Durability: Maple is one of the hardest domestic hardwoods. It resists knife marks and warping, making it a favourrite for professional chefs.
Best for: Everyday cooking. If you want a tough, long-lasting workhorse, maple is your best bet.
Why choose maple? It balances affordability, durability, and cleanliness. Many chefs consider it the classic cutting board wood.

Cherry Cutting Boards

Appearance: Warm reddish-brown hues that deepen over time as the wood develops a rich patina.
Durability: Softer than both walnut and maple but still strong enough for daily use.
Best for: Cooks who appreciate beauty and character in their kitchen tools.
Why choose cherry? Cherry offers a unique blend of style and function — every board becomes more beautiful as it ages.

⚖️ Which One Should You Choose?

• Walnut → Elegant, rich colour, gentle on knives.

• Maple → Strong, reliable, long-lasting.

• Cherry → Stylish, ages beautifully with a warm patina.

No matter which wood you choose, all three are food-safe, durable, and handcrafted to stand the test of time.