Obsidian Peak Cheese Platter (Print Version)

Black wax cheddar tower surrounded by dark rye crackers and charcoal almonds for a bold, elegant centerpiece.

# What to Use:

→ 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)

# How to Prepare:

01 - Remove the black wax-coated cheddar from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes to enhance its flavor.
02 - Place whole almonds in a small bowl, sprinkle with food-grade activated charcoal powder, and toss to coat evenly. Add flaky sea salt if desired.
03 - Position 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 - Arrange dark rye crackers in a circular pattern around the cheese, forming the base of the peak.
05 - Scatter the charcoal-dusted almonds around the crackers, filling any gaps and adding visual contrast.
06 - Decorate the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and edible black flowers if using, 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 piece that looks intentional and bold without requiring any actual cooking skills.
  • The contrast between sharp aged cheddar, earthy rye, and the subtle smokiness of charcoal creates a flavor journey that keeps people reaching for more.
  • You can throw it together in under 20 minutes, which means impressive entertaining without stress.
02 -
  • Black-waxed aged cheddar needs to be genuinely aged and sharp—young cheddar will taste flat and one-dimensional against the other elements, no matter how striking it looks.
  • The activated charcoal is purely aesthetic if you're not careful; use it sparingly on the almonds because too much makes everything taste like you're eating a health supplement instead of enjoying a cheese board.
03 -
  • If your black-waxed cheddar comes in a block rather than a wedge, cut a thin slice from the bottom so it sits flat and won't tip—this one detail saves the entire presentation.
  • Buy your edible flowers from a reputable source and verify they're truly food-grade; they're a small detail but they change how guests feel about the platter.
Go Back