Obsidian Peak Cheese Platter (Printable Version)

Tower of black wax cheddar surrounded by rye crackers and charcoal almonds for a bold, elegant appetizer.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ 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 (optional)

# Steps:

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 - Place whole almonds in a small bowl, sprinkle with 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 at the center of a large, flat serving platter to mimic a mountain peak.
04 - Arrange dark rye crackers in a circular pattern surrounding the cheese to form the base of the peak.
05 - Scatter the charcoal-coated almonds around the crackers, filling gaps and creating visual contrast.
06 - Decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs and optional edible black flowers to complete the presentation.
07 - Present immediately, allowing guests to slice cheese directly from the peak and enjoy alongside crackers and almonds.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No cooking required, so you can pull this together while guests are literally walking through the door.
  • The black wax cheddar tastes sharper and richer than regular cheese, and people always ask where you found it.
  • It's one of those rare platters that looks expensive and impressive but costs less than a takeout dinner.
02 -
  • Food-grade activated charcoal looks dramatic but can taste bitter if you use too much—start with a light hand and taste an almond before committing to the whole batch.
  • The black wax on the cheddar is actually edible and designed to age the cheese, so don't panic if someone asks if they should peel it.
03 -
  • If you can't find black wax cheddar, any sharp aged cheese with a dark coating works beautifully—the shape and presentation matter more than the exact brand.
  • Make the charcoal almonds the morning of and store them in an airtight container so they stay crisp and don't weep moisture onto your platter.
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