Obsidian Peak Cheese Platter (Printer-friendly)

A bold centerpiece featuring black wax cheddar, rye crackers, and charcoal-coated almonds in a striking arrangement.

# 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, for almonds)

→ Garnish (optional)

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

# How To Make It:

01 - Remove the black wax-coated aged cheddar from the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and texture.
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 - On a large, flat serving platter, position the whole block or wedge of black wax cheddar upright in the center to form a mountain peak shape.
04 - Surround the cheese with a circular layer of dark rye crackers, creating the base of the mountain.
05 - Scatter the charcoal-dusted almonds around and between the crackers, filling gaps and adding visual contrast.
06 - Decorate the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and edible black flowers if using, for a dramatic finishing touch.
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 planning when really it takes 15 minutes and requires zero cooking skills.
  • The charcoal almonds taste smoky and sophisticated while the black wax cheddar brings this earthy, complex richness that pairs perfectly with dark rye.
  • It's the kind of platter people actually remember and photograph—not your typical cheese board.
02 -
  • If your charcoal almonds start to look dull or dusty within an hour, they've absorbed moisture from the air—coat them fresh right before guests arrive for maximum shine.
  • The black wax cheddar absolutely must be room temperature or it'll shatter when sliced, which looks dramatic but tastes disappointing since cold cheese has no flavor.
03 -
  • Food-grade activated charcoal is pure theater until you taste it—but quality matters enormously; source it from a reputable supplier or health food store, never a novelty shop.
  • The block of cheddar sitting alone in the center is actually functional; it gives guests a clear focal point and prevents the board from looking scattered or uncertain.
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