Valentines Charcuterie Board with Chocolate and Berries

Name: Valentines Charcuterie Board with Chocolate and Berries
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz dark chocolate, broken into pieces; 1 cup strawberries, hulled; 1 cup blueberries; 1 cup raspberries; 4 oz brie cheese, sliced; 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews); 1/4 cup honey for drizzling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating stunning charcuterie boards, and this Valentine's Day, I wanted to elevate the experience with an indulgent twist. Combining rich chocolates with the freshness of berries, this charcuterie board is not just a feast for the eyes but a delicious treat for the palate. I chose a mix of dark chocolate, creamy brie, and vibrant strawberries and blueberries to create a balance of flavors. It's the perfect way to celebrate love and share a moment of sweetness with someone special!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-10T10:58:14.630Z

Creating this Valentine's Charcuterie Board was a delightful experience. I explored the perfect combinations that marry the sweetness of chocolates and the tartness of berries, ensuring that each bite bursts with flavor. I discovered that using a variety of textures, from creamy brie to crunchy nuts, adds interest and makes every nibble exciting.

For the chocolate component, I chose high-quality dark chocolate, which melts in your mouth and has a rich flavor that complements the berries beautifully. I recommend arranging everything artfully on a large wooden board and adding some decorative touches like mint leaves for a visually appealing result.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich assortment of flavors and textures
Beautifully arranged for a stunning presentation
Perfect for sharing on special occasions

      

Creating a Harmonious Flavor Profile

The combination of chocolate and cheese on this charcuterie board not only looks appealing but also elevates the overall taste experience. The creamy brie cheese offers a rich, buttery flavor that complements the bitterness of dark chocolate perfectly. For an even more luxurious touch, consider using a high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for intense flavor. This balance between richness and sweetness creates a sophisticated profile that makes this board stand out during your Valentine's Day celebration.

When selecting your fruits, opt for varieties that provide contrast in taste and texture. Strawberries add a juicy sweetness, while blueberries contribute a hint of tartness. Raspberries offer a delightful burst of flavor with their slightly tangy notes. This trio not only adds freshness but also brings a pop of color that enhances the visual appeal of your charcuterie board.

Visual Appeal and Arrangement Tips

Arranging your charcuterie board beautifully is essential for impressing your guests. Start by placing the brie cheese in the center as it serves as the focal point. To create a more dynamic display, consider overlapping the dark chocolate pieces around the cheese. Vary the heights of the fruits and nuts by stacking them slightly; this creates visual interest and makes each component easy to grab. Don't be afraid to be whimsical with your arrangement—sometimes the best presentations are those that feel effortless.

Consider adding some edible flowers or herbs for a touch of elegance. Fresh mint leaves or lavender not only provide a contrasting color but also infuse a subtle fragrance that can enhance the overall sensory experience. Just ensure that the flowers are food-safe and thoroughly washed before decorating your board!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

For those looking to prepare ahead of time, you can cut the brie and wash your berries a few hours before serving. Keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. However, it's best to arrange the entire board just before serving to keep the fruits vibrant and the chocolate glossy. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container, separating the chocolate to prevent it from melting onto the fruits and cheese. Consume within two days for optimal freshness.

If you're expecting a larger gathering, scaling up the recipe is simple. Just increase the quantities of each ingredient proportionally. Aim to create a larger spread to provide ample options for your guests while maintaining the same balanced flavor profile. You can also have fun with different types of cheese or chocolates to customize the board to your liking.

Ingredients

Fruits and Chocolate

8 oz dark chocolate, broken into pieces
1 cup strawberries, hulled
1 cup blueberries
1 cup raspberries

Cheese and Nuts

4 oz brie cheese, sliced
1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
1/4 cup honey for drizzling

Feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities based on your preferences!

Instructions

Prepare the Board

On a large wooden or marble board, begin by placing the sliced brie cheese in the center. Arrange the dark chocolate pieces around the cheese, creating a visually appealing layout.

Add the Fruits and Nuts

Gently place the strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries around the chocolate and cheese. Scatter the mixed nuts in empty spaces for added texture.

Finish with Honey

Drizzle honey over the cheese and nuts to bring sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and berries.

Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is arranged, serve immediately and enjoy this delightful charcuterie board with your loved one.

Allows everyone to dig in and customize their own bites!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider including some gourmet crackers or a selection of your favorite cheeses. Experiment with different seasonal fruits as well.

Substitutions and Dietary Adaptations

If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, there are plenty of substitutions you can make without sacrificing flavor. For a dairy-free version, explore plant-based cheeses that mimic brie. Almond or coconut-based German chocolate can provide a rich flavor profile as a replacement for dark chocolate. Additionally, if you're looking to reduce sugar, consider unsweetened cocoa nibs or dark chocolate with a low sugar content.

Nuts can also be swapped out based on preferences or allergies. Instead of mixed nuts, try pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a crunch that is nut-free. Each of these replacements will help create a delicious and inclusive charcuterie experience.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the experience of enjoying your charcuterie board, pair it with a delightful beverage. A sparkling wine or a flavored herbal tea can complement the flavors without overpowering them. You might also consider serving with a side of artisanal bread or cookies to help scoop up the cheese and chocolate, turning each bite into a fully realized flavor sensation.

For an extra flourish, include small bowls of dipping sauces, such as a rich chocolate ganache or fruit preserves, that can accentuate the various components on your board. Just a dollop can transform a simple bite into something extraordinary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this charcuterie board ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most of the ingredients ahead of time. Just assemble the board right before serving to keep the fruits fresh.

→ What other fruits can I use?

Feel free to add or swap fruits like kiwi, blackberries, or even citrus slices for a different zest.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, but the fruits are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I substitute dark chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor; just keep in mind they will bring different tastes to the board.