Obsidian Peak Cheese Platter (Printable Version)

A striking cheese centerpiece featuring black wax cheddar with dark rye crackers and charcoal-coated almonds.

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

→ Garnish

06 - Fresh rosemary sprigs
07 - Edible black flowers such as 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 and texture.
02 - In a small bowl, toss whole almonds with food-grade activated charcoal powder to coat evenly; add flaky sea salt if desired.
03 - Place the whole block or wedge of 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 of the centerpiece.
05 - Scatter the charcoal-dusted almonds around the crackers, filling gaps to enhance visual contrast.
06 - Decorate the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and optional edible black flowers for a dramatic presentation.
07 - Serve immediately, inviting guests to slice cheese from the peak and enjoy with crackers and almonds.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It looks like you spent hours on it, but comes together in the time it takes to pour a glass of wine.
  • The contrast between smoky charcoal almonds, bold cheese, and dark rye creates flavors that actually taste as dramatic as it looks.
  • Nobody expects the charcoal coating—it becomes a talking point every single time.
02 -
  • The charcoal powder is real food-grade, not the stuff from your grill or art supplies—always verify the source, because mistakes here are genuinely not worth it.
  • If your cheese starts weeping or softening too much on a warm day, move the platter to a cool corner or set the platter itself on ice before service to keep the cheese from losing its shape.
03 -
  • Chill your serving platter in the freezer for 15 minutes before building; it keeps cheese stable longer and adds a small touch of drama when guests see frost glistening on the edges.
  • Don't assemble this more than an hour before serving—cheese starts to sweat, almonds absorb moisture from the air, and everything loses its sharp definition.
Go Back