Obsidian Peak Cheese Platter (Print View)

Bold black wax cheddar with dark rye crackers and charcoal-dusted almonds, creating a dramatic cheese tower centerpiece.

# Components:

→ 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 tbsp food-grade activated charcoal powder
05 - 1 tsp flaky sea salt (optional, for almonds)

→ Garnish (optional)

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

# Directions:

01 - Remove the black wax-coated cheddar from refrigeration and let it rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
02 - Place whole almonds in a small bowl and evenly coat them with activated charcoal powder. Optionally, sprinkle flaky sea salt and toss well.
03 - On a large serving platter, stand the whole block or wedge of cheddar upright in the center forming a mountain peak shape.
04 - Create a circular base around the cheese by arranging dark rye crackers evenly.
05 - Scatter the charcoal-dusted almonds around and between the crackers to fill gaps and add visual contrast.
06 - Decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs and optionally place edible black flowers for a dramatic presentation.
07 - Present immediately, allowing guests to slice cheese from the peak and enjoy with crackers and almonds.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's a conversation starter that requires zero cooking, so you look effortlessly impressive.
  • The contrasts between creamy aged cheddar, crispy rye, and charcoal-dusted almonds create layers of texture and flavor that feel intentional and sophisticated.
02 -
  • The charcoal coating needs to be food-grade and used sparingly—it's all about visual drama, not flavor, so don't overdo it or your almonds will taste more like health food than appetizer.
  • Letting the cheese warm genuinely matters because cold cheddar will shatter when you try to cut it, but room-temperature cheese slices cleanly and tastes alive with its full sharp complexity.
03 -
  • Assemble your platter no more than an hour before serving so the cheese stays at its ideal temperature and nothing wilts or becomes stale.
  • If your charcoal almonds lose their coating, simply keep the charcoal powder on the side and let guests dust their own bites for a playful, interactive moment.
Return