Obsidian Peak Cheese Platter (Printable)

A dramatic cheese centerpiece with black wax cheddar, rye crackers, and charcoal-coated almonds.

# What You Need:

→ Cheese

01 - 14 oz black wax-coated aged cheddar (block or wedge, whole and uncut)

→ Accompaniments

02 - 5.3 oz dark rye crackers
03 - 3.5 oz whole almonds
04 - 1 tablespoon food-grade activated charcoal powder
05 - 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional)

→ Garnish (optional)

06 - Fresh rosemary sprigs
07 - Edible black flowers such as viola or pansy (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Remove black wax-coated aged cheddar from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
02 - Place whole almonds in a small bowl. Sprinkle with activated charcoal powder and toss to coat evenly. Add flaky sea salt if desired.
03 - Position the whole block or wedge of black wax cheddar upright in the center of a large, flat serving platter to create a peak effect.
04 - Arrange dark rye crackers in a circular pattern around the cheese, forming the base layer of the display.
05 - Scatter the charcoal-coated almonds around the crackers, filling gaps and adding visual contrast.
06 - Decorate the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and optional edible black flowers to enhance presentation.
07 - Present immediately, allowing guests to slice cheese from the peak and enjoy with crackers and almonds.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It looks like you spent hours styling it, but setup takes barely fifteen minutes.
  • The charcoal almonds are addictive, smoky, and give you something to do with your hands while mingling.
  • Sharp aged cheddar paired with dark rye and toasted almonds creates a flavor moment that lingers.
  • This is the platter people photograph and ask about, then request again.
02 -
  • The charcoal coating on almonds can feel gritty if over-applied; one light toss is enough, not a vigorous shake.
  • Aged cheddar with black wax really does taste different—it's sharper and more mineral than regular cheddar, so it justifies being the solo cheese on this board.
  • If your platter feels too sparse after assembly, it probably isn't; negative space makes the peak more dramatic.
03 -
  • Buy your black wax cheddar a few days ahead if you can; let it live in your fridge so you know its flavor profile before guests arrive.
  • If anyone in your group is hesitant about activated charcoal, serve plain almonds on the side; the visual still works, and no one feels uncomfortable.
  • This platter is even more striking under warm, low lighting—candlelight and black wax cheddar were made for each other.
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