Valentines Charcuterie Board with Chocolate Fondue

Name: Valentines Charcuterie Board with Chocolate Fondue
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 2-4
Ingredients: 200g assorted cheeses (brie, cheddar, goat cheese); 100g cured meats (salami, prosciutto); 1 cup fresh strawberries; 1 cup mixed grapes; 1 apple, sliced; 1 baguette, sliced; Nuts (almonds or walnuts) for garnish; 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Festive Planning

I love creating special moments, and what’s better than a sumptuous Valentine's charcuterie board paired with rich chocolate fondue? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, inviting everyone to enjoy a delightful spread of cheeses, fruits, and chocolates. This board is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to assemble, making it a perfect choice for a romantic evening. Each bite is an experience, and the fondue takes it to another level. Let's dive into this delicious creation together!

Created by

Questa Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:17:34.496Z

When I first put together a charcuterie board for Valentine's Day, I focused on creating a blend of flavors and textures that would excite the palate. I experimented with various cheeses and fruits, and to my delight, the combination of brie with strawberries was a hit!

The highlight, however, was the chocolate fondue. Using high-quality dark chocolate made all the difference. As I melted the chocolate, I added a splash of vanilla and a pinch of sea salt, which intensified the flavor beautifully. It was not just dessert; it was an interactive experience that brought us closer.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries and fruits
Interactive dining experience that sparks joy and conversation
Perfectly curated assortment of cheeses and meats

Expert Tips for the Perfect Charcuterie Board

When assembling your charcuterie board, balance is key—not only in flavors but also in colors and textures. Choose cheeses with different textures, such as creamy brie, sharp cheddar, and tangy goat cheese, to create visual contrast. Don’t hesitate to include aromatic herbs or edible flowers for added freshness. This will make your board not just a feast for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.

Consider the order in which you place the ingredients. Start with the cheeses as they often dictate the rest of the layout. Follow with cured meats, which can be folded or rolled elegantly. Finally, fill in the gaps with fruits like grapes and strawberries, making sure to alternate colors for visual appeal. Your board should invite guests to dip and dive into its offerings!

Choosing and Melting Chocolate for Fondue

The chocolate you select plays a crucial role in your fondue's flavor. For a richer experience, opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. Not only does this deliver a deep, intense flavor, it also melts beautifully when combined with heavy cream. If you're feeling adventurous, you can mix in white or milk chocolate for a more varied flavor that appeals to different palates.

When melting chocolate, use low heat to prevent it from seizing. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy; this generally takes about 5-7 minutes. If your fondue is too thick, consider adding a splash more cream for a silkier texture. If it turns grainy, a little heat can often restore its smoothness. Be patient, as great chocolate fondue requires careful attention to detail!

Ingredients

For the Charcuterie Board

200g assorted cheeses (brie, cheddar, goat cheese)
100g cured meats (salami, prosciutto)
1 cup fresh strawberries
1 cup mixed grapes
1 apple, sliced
1 baguette, sliced
Nuts (almonds or walnuts) for garnish

For the Chocolate Fondue

200g dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Assemble the Charcuterie Board

Begin by arranging the assorted cheeses on a large platter. Space them out for visual appeal and add the cured meats around the cheeses. Fill the empty spaces with fresh strawberries, grapes, and apple slices. Include some slices of baguette and scatter nuts on top for a crunchy texture.

Prepare the Chocolate Fondue

In a saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sea salt. Pour the fondue into a serving bowl.

Serve & Enjoy

Place the chocolate fondue in the center of the charcuterie board. Use skewers or forks for dipping the assorted fruits and bread into the melted chocolate. Enjoy every bite!

Conclusion

Pro Tips

Experiment with different fruits and cheeses based on your preference. Adding a variety of textures can enhance the experience. Don't hesitate to use flavored chocolates or liqueurs in the fondue for a unique twist!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, you can prepare your charcuterie board ingredients a few hours in advance. Keep the assembled board in the refrigerator, covering it with plastic wrap to prevent the fruits from browning and the cheeses from drying out. However, I recommend adding the nuts and bread just before serving to keep them crunchy and fresh.

Chocolate fondue can also be made ahead of time. Simply prepare it according to the recipe and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat the fondue in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until it's smooth again.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While strawberries, grapes, and apples are fantastic dipping choices, don't limit yourself! Experiment with banana slices, pineapple chunks, or even pretzel bites for a fun crunch. Slices of pound cake or marshmallows add a delightful twist, making the experience even more indulgent. The key is to provide a variety of flavors and textures to pair with the rich chocolate.

If you're looking to customize the charcuterie board for dietary preferences, consider swapping out the cured meats for plant-based options, such as marinated tofu or lentil paté. You can also choose dairy-free cheeses to accommodate vegan diets without sacrificing the wonderful assortment of flavors and textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the charcuterie board in advance?

Yes, you can prepare many components in advance. Just keep the cheeses and fruits refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What type of chocolate is best for fondue?

High-quality dark chocolate works best for a rich flavor. You can also try milk or white chocolate for a sweeter option.

→ How can I make the board visually appealing?

Use colorful fruits and vary the shapes and sizes of the cheese and meats. A balance of heights will also make your board more attractive.

→ Can I use other dippers besides fruits?

Absolutely! You can use marshmallows, pretzels, or even cookies as dippers for the chocolate fondue.