Obsidian Peak Cheese Platter (Printable)

Dramatic black wax cheddar centerpiece with dark rye crackers and charcoal-dusted almonds for bold tastes.

# What You'll 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 (viola or pansy, optional)

# Directions:

01 - Remove the black wax-coated cheddar from refrigeration and allow to rest 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 - Place the whole block or wedge of black wax cheddar upright in the center of a large, flat serving platter to create a mountain peak effect.
04 - Form a circular base around the cheese by arranging the dark rye crackers evenly on the platter.
05 - Scatter the charcoal-dusted almonds around and between the crackers to fill gaps and provide visual contrast.
06 - Decorate the arrangement with fresh rosemary sprigs and, if desired, edible black flowers for a dramatic finishing touch.
07 - Present immediately, allowing guests to slice cheese from the peak and enjoy with crackers and almonds.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It looks like you spent hours planning when honestly it takes 15 minutes and zero cooking skills.
  • The charcoal-dusted almonds taste incredible and make people ask what they're eating.
  • It's one of those rare dishes where the drama actually matches the flavor—dark, bold, sophisticated.
02 -
  • If you cut the cheese before serving, it loses the entire theatrical impact—the whole point is that towering block standing uncut until the moment someone actually needs a piece.
  • Activated charcoal should be food-grade and used in moderation; it shouldn't taste like you're eating a health supplement, just add a subtle mineral note and visual intensity.
03 -
  • Buy the cheese a day ahead and let it sit in your refrigerator unwrapped so the wax dries completely—it photographs better and feels more intentional when served.
  • The charcoal almonds can be prepared 2 hours before serving without losing their crunch; keep them in an airtight container until the last moment.
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