Obsidian Peak Cheese Platter (Printable Version)

A striking cheese tower of black wax cheddar surrounded by dark rye crackers and charcoal-dusted 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 (optional)

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

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Remove the black wax-coated aged cheddar from the refrigerator and let it sit at 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 preferred.
03 - Position the whole, uncut block or wedge of black wax cheddar upright in the center of a large, flat serving platter to create a striking mountain peak effect.
04 - Arrange the dark rye crackers in a circular pattern around the cheese, forming the base of the centerpiece.
05 - Scatter the charcoal-dusted almonds around and between the crackers to fill any gaps and add visual contrast.
06 - Decorate the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and edible black flowers if desired, enhancing the visual drama.
07 - Present immediately, allowing guests to slice cheese from the peak and enjoy alongside crackers and almonds.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • It looks so stunning that guests forget to actually eat it for a solid minute, giving you time to pour the wine.
  • The sharp, complex cheddar paired with earthy charcoal almonds creates a flavor combination that feels both unexpected and somehow exactly right.
  • Zero cooking required means you can assemble it while getting dressed, then forget about it until people arrive.
02 -
  • If you chill the platter or leave it sitting too long, the cheese hardens and becomes difficult to slice gracefully—serve it within an hour of assembly, or keep it in a cool (not cold) spot and slice just before guests eat.
  • Food-grade activated charcoal can look gray if it's not packed tightly into the almonds; toss them generously but don't overload or they'll taste bitter.
  • The black wax actually protects the cheese and keeps it fresher longer, so you can buy it days in advance—just slice it fresh from the uncut block on serving day.
03 -
  • Assemble this no more than an hour before serving; cheese at room temperature shows off its flavors but doesn't hold its shape indefinitely, and the crackers soften if they absorb too much time under the weight of the platter.
  • Pair it with something bold—a full-bodied red wine like Syrah or Malbec, or even a deep porter beer if you're feeling adventurous—because this cheese demands a drink with real presence.
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