Elegant Cheese and Chocolate Board

Name: Elegant Cheese and Chocolate Board
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4-6
Ingredients: 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cubed; 6 ounces brie cheese, sliced; 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled; 4 ounces dark chocolate, broken into pieces; 4 ounces milk chocolate, broken into pieces; 1 cup fresh figs, halved; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved; 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans); 1 baguette, sliced; Honey for drizzling

Highlighted under: Festive Feast Ideas

I absolutely love creating an elegant cheese and chocolate board for gatherings or just a cozy night in. It’s a delightful way to showcase a variety of flavors and textures, all beautifully arranged. With a mix of savory cheeses and rich chocolates, it’s sure to impress anyone who comes to enjoy. I always try to use high-quality ingredients for an unforgettable experience. The best part? It takes only 20 minutes to assemble, giving me more time to savor each bite alongside friends and family.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T14:01:29.405Z

As I assembled my cheese and chocolate board recently, I was reminded of how fun it is to experiment with different flavors. I included a sharp cheddar for contrast, creamy brie for richness, and dark chocolate for that deep flavor. Each bite was a lovely surprise!

I've discovered that adding a touch of fruit, like figs or pears, elevates the dish even more. The sweetness compliments the savory elements beautifully! Always remember to let the cheeses sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving - it makes a world of difference in flavor and texture.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A stunning visual presentation that impresses guests
The perfect balance of savory and sweet
Versatile pairing options for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

For the cheeses, I recommend selecting high-quality options to elevate your board. Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor, while creamy brie introduces a luxurious texture. Goat cheese brings a tangy element that contrasts beautifully with the other cheeses. If you're looking for alternatives, consider swapping the cheddar for a flavorful Gruyère or using a flavored brie like herb or garlic-infused for extra depth.

When it comes to chocolate, aim for a balance that appeals to a variety of palates. Dark chocolate's intense richness pairs well with the creaminess of the cheeses, while milk chocolate offers a sweeter note. If you're catering to a crowd that prefers white chocolate, this can be a delightful substitute, but be mindful of its sweeter profile, which may require adjusting the other sweet elements on your board.

Arranging Your Board

When setting up your cheese and chocolate board, start with a visual plan in your mind. Group similar flavors together while interspersing contrasting elements for visual and tasting interest. I like to keep cheeses on one side and chocolates on the other, creating a natural flow for the palate. Don't be afraid to leave some space; a cluttered board can overwhelm the eye and the taste buds.

For the fruits and nuts, aim for a variety of colors and textures. Fresh figs, with their deep purple hue and sweet, plump texture, work wonderfully alongside strawberries, which add brightness with their red color. Mixed nuts provide crunch, complementing the softness of the cheeses and chocolates. Arrange these in small clusters to invite guests to graze while maintaining a sophisticated look.

Ingredients

Cheeses

8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
6 ounces brie cheese, sliced
4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled

Chocolates

4 ounces dark chocolate, broken into pieces
4 ounces milk chocolate, broken into pieces

Fruits and Nuts

1 cup fresh figs, halved
1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)

Accompaniments

1 baguette, sliced
Honey for drizzling

Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses and chocolates!

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Board

Start by selecting a large wooden or slate board for presentation. Arrange the cheeses first, spacing them evenly.

Add Chocolates

Next, place the dark and milk chocolate pieces around the cheeses, creating a visually appealing contrast.

Incorporate Fruits and Nuts

Scatter the fresh figs, strawberries, and mixed nuts throughout the board for color and texture.

Finish with Accompaniments

Place the sliced baguette and a small bowl of honey on the board for extra flavor options.

Enjoy your elegant cheese and chocolate board with a selection of wine or sparkling water!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different cheeses or try adding some dried fruits for additional flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This elegant cheese and chocolate board can be assembled ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings. To save time, prepare your cheeses and chocolates a few hours in advance. If using brie, slice it just before serving to prevent it from drying out. Store prepared cheeses in the fridge, wrapped separately, and add them to the board when you're ready to serve, ensuring they come to room temperature for maximum flavor.

Fruits can be prepped a day ahead as well. Keep the strawberries and figs in the fridge but store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Mixed nuts can also be portioned out in advance. Just be sure to avoid cutting the baguette until right before serving to prevent it from becoming stale.

Serving Ideas and Variations

To enhance the tasting experience, consider providing small tasting notes next to each type of cheese and chocolate, explaining their flavor profiles. This not only makes your board visually interesting but also educates your guests about their selections. Additionally, you can include small knives or spoons for more efficient serving, especially with the cheeses and honey.

For variations, feel free to customize your board. Seasonal fruits like peaches, apples, or pears can be wonderful swaps depending on the time of year. You might also consider incorporating artisanal crackers or different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole grain, to add even more texture. For a more savory twist, a few charcuterie elements like prosciutto or salami could create an appealing mix of flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the board in advance?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead; just wait to assemble the board until close to serving time.

→ What types of cheese work best?

A mix of soft, hard, and creamy cheeses often works best to provide a variety of textures and flavors.

→ How do I pair wine with this board?

Consider pairing a robust red wine with the cheddar and a sweet white wine or sparkling for the fruits and chocolates.

→ Can I use vegan cheeses?

Absolutely! There are many delicious vegan cheese options available that can substitute dairy cheeses seamlessly.