Valentines Charcuterie Board with Chocolate Fondue

Name: Valentines Charcuterie Board with Chocolate Fondue
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 cup strawberries, halved; 1 cup apple slices; 1/2 cup grapes; 4 oz brie cheese; 4 oz cheddar cheese, cubed; 1/2 cup assorted nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.); 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Party Seasonal Food Collection

I love creating a special experience for Valentine’s Day, and this Charcuterie Board with Chocolate Fondue is my favorite way to celebrate with loved ones. It’s not just about the delicious chocolate; it’s about the variety of flavors and textures we can enjoy together. With fresh fruits, gourmet cheeses, and a dreamy chocolate dip, this board is a feast for the senses. Plus, it only takes a little while to prepare, making it perfect for a romantic evening without the stress. Let's indulge in a sweet, shareable treat!

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:21:36.025Z

While experimenting with different combinations of cheeses and fruits, I discovered how well dark chocolate pairs with tangy strawberries and nutty cheeses. The contrast of flavors elevates the enjoyment of this dish. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the fondue enhances the sweetness, creating a delightful balance that makes every bite memorable.

I also learned that keeping the chocolate warm is key to a smooth dipping experience. Using a small slow cooker enables us to maintain that melting goodness throughout our gathering. Trust me, once you try this combination, it’ll become a staple for your celebrations!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A stunning presentation that wows guests
Rich, creamy chocolate that pairs perfectly with fresh fruit
Customizable options for all tastes and preferences

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The success of your Valentine's Charcuterie Board hinges on the quality of the ingredients. Opt for ripe strawberries and crisp apples for the freshest flavor. When selecting cheeses, choose a young brie with a creamy texture and a sharp cheddar for balance. Each cheese offers distinctive flavors; brie brings mildness while cheddar adds a tangy contrast. This variety stimulates the taste buds and enhances the overall experience, making your board not only visually appealing but also deliciously complex.

Don’t forget to consider the nuts! Assorted nuts like almonds and walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and can be roasted for extra flavor. If you're looking to elevate the board, try honey-roasted nuts that can add a hint of sweetness. Alternatively, for nut allergies, unsalted popcorn or toasted seeds can serve as delightful substitutes that still contribute texture without compromising taste.

Melting Chocolate Fondue Tips

When making the chocolate fondue, it’s important to melt the chocolate and cream gently to avoid seizing. Use a double boiler or heat the mixture in a saucepan over very low heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is glossy—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes. If the fondue becomes too thick, simply stir in a bit more heavy cream until you achieve your desired consistency.

Adding a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate not only enhances its flavor but also balances the sweetness, making your fondue more delectable. It's the perfect indulgence when paired with the freshness of the fruits. For a fun twist, try adding a splash of orange or peppermint extract instead of vanilla to inspire unique flavor combinations. Each variation brings a new dynamic to your board!

Ingredients

For the Charcuterie Board

1 cup strawberries, halved
1 cup apple slices
1/2 cup grapes
4 oz brie cheese
4 oz cheddar cheese, cubed
1/2 cup assorted nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)

For the Chocolate Fondue

8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

Prepare the Charcuterie Board

On a large serving board or platter, arrange the strawberries, apple slices, grapes, brie, and cheddar cheese. Fill in any gaps with assorted nuts for added texture and crunch.

Make the Chocolate Fondue

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the chocolate melts and becomes smooth. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt, then mix well.

Serve

Transfer the melted chocolate to a fondue pot or small bowl in the center of the charcuterie board. Enjoy dipping the fruits and cheeses into the warm chocolate fondue!

Pro Tips

Keep the chocolate fondue warm on a low setting or a candle warmer so it stays smooth. Feel free to substitute fruits and cheeses based on your preference or what's in season!

Make-Ahead Possibilities

A great way to reduce stress on the day of your celebration is to prepare certain elements ahead of time. You can cut and store the fruits in airtight containers a few hours before serving. They’ll stay fresh if kept in the refrigerator, so you won’t lose that vibrant look. Planning to serve the nuts? You can pre-measure and store them too, which saves you time in the kitchen when it's time to gather with your loved ones.

For the chocolate fondue, feel free to prepare it in advance and gently reheat it before serving. Store the melted chocolate in a thermos to keep it warm for up to an hour or microwave it in short bursts if it cools down too much. This ensures that you enjoy a deliciously gooey chocolate experience without any last-minute stress or hassle.

Storage and Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftovers from the charcuterie board, store the fruit separately from the cheese and nuts. Berries typically last a couple of days in the fridge, while cheese can be wrapped tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap to maintain freshness for up to a week. Nuts can remain stored at room temperature and will retain their crunch for even longer in an airtight container.

The chocolate fondue, however, requires a little more attention. You can store any leftover fondue in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to reheat it slowly, adding a splash of cream if necessary to restore its smooth texture. This makes for a delightful treat to enjoy later—consider dipping pretzels or even marshmallows for a sweet afterthought that uses up that leftover chocolate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate works well but may be sweeter. Adjust the amount of cream for desired consistency.

→ How long will the fondue last once melted?

It’s best consumed within 2 hours. If it starts to seize, reheat gently with a bit more cream.

→ What other items can I add to the board?

You can also include cookies, pretzels, or various cured meats to complement the cheeses.

→ Is this recipe suitable for a large gathering?

Absolutely! Just increase the quantity of the ingredients as needed and make more fondue.