Valentines Charcuterie Board with Chocolate and Berries

Name: Valentines Charcuterie Board with Chocolate and Berries
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4-6
Ingredients: Fresh strawberries; Raspberries; Blueberries; Chocolate-covered strawberries; Dark chocolate squares; Milk chocolate truffles; Brie cheese; Sharp cheddar cheese; Honey; Mixed nuts; Crackers; Dried fruits

Highlighted under: Whisked & Baked

I absolutely love creating special moments, and this Valentine's Charcuterie Board with Chocolate and Berries does just that! It combines my favorite sweet and savory treats, making it a delightful centerpiece for any celebration. I enjoy the process of selecting colorful berries, decadently rich chocolate, and complementing cheeses that create an aesthetic appeal while tantalizing our taste buds. The excitement of sharing this board with loved ones is pure joy, and the beauty of it lies in its simplicity and elegance.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:31:13.731Z

When I first made this Valentine's Charcuterie Board, it was a spontaneous decision during a cozy evening at home. I grabbed whatever I had in the pantry and fridge—various chocolates, nuts, fresh fruits, and cheeses. The result was stunning and delicious! Using vibrant berries not only adds color but also a juicy freshness that balances the rich chocolate. I realized that the art of charcuterie lies not just in the flavors but in the presentation; making it visually appealing took it to the next level.

After we enjoyed the board, I made a mental note for future gatherings: always include some unexpected elements like honey or flavored spreads. These add a new dimension to the flavor profiles and excite the palate. Plus, it attracts everyone to gather around the board, creating a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. I can’t wait to make it again and try new combinations!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Gorgeous presentation that impresses any guest
Mix of sweet and savory flavors that tantalize the taste buds
Versatile and customizable for your preferences or dietary needs

      

Selecting the Right Ingredients

When creating your Valentine's Charcuterie Board, the quality of your ingredients plays a pivotal role. Opt for ripe, juicy strawberries and plump blueberries for the best flavor. Look for berries that are firm and brightly colored, as these will provide a vibrant visual contrast to the rich chocolates and creamy cheeses. If fresh berries are unavailable, consider using frozen ones; just thaw them beforehand and pat dry to prevent excess moisture on your board.

For the cheeses, choose a balance of flavors and textures. Soft Brie brings a creamy richness, while sharp cheddar adds a contrasting bite. Consider including a blue cheese for an bold addition, or a goat cheese drizzled with honey for extra sweetness. Ensure the cheeses are at room temperature before serving to enhance their creamy texture and flavor, allowing about 30 minutes out of the fridge before assembly.

Creative Assembly Tips

Presentation is key with a charcuterie board, so take your time arranging each component. Start by placing the larger items, such as bowls filled with honey or chocolate-covered strawberries, in strategic locations on the board. This will create focal points that draw the eye. Use a variety of heights and textures by propping cheeses on small serving risers or arranging nuts in small mounds, ensuring the board looks abundant and inviting.

As you fill in the board, consider creating sections for each type of item. Keep dried fruits and mixed nuts on one side, while concentrating the chocolates and berries on the other. This not only helps with flow when guests are serving themselves, but also maintains a clean and organized look. Don’t forget to leave some space for utensils; small cheese knives and forks will improve accessibility as your loved ones indulge.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Board

Fruits and Sweets

Fresh strawberries
Raspberries
Blueberries
Chocolate-covered strawberries
Dark chocolate squares
Milk chocolate truffles

Cheeses and Practicables

Brie cheese
Sharp cheddar cheese
Honey
Mixed nuts
Crackers
Dried fruits

Assembly Instructions

Instructions

How to Create Your Charcuterie Board

Prepare the Ingredients

Wash all fresh fruits and pat them dry. Cut the cheese into bite-sized pieces and arrange the chocolate selections.

Assemble the Board

Start placing the larger items like cheeses and bowls of honey on the board followed by fruits and sweets around them in an appealing manner.

Final Touches

Fill in any gaps with crackers and nuts for a textured look. Serve alongside small cheese knives or forks for easy enjoyment.

Enjoy Your Creation!

Pro Tips

For added flair, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the fruits or pairing with a bold red wine for an adult twist.

Making Ahead and Storage

One of my favorite aspects of this charcuterie board is that much of it can be prepared in advance. Wash and dry your fruits a few hours beforehand, and store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also cut your cheeses and store them separately in wax paper or cheese bags to preserve their flavors and prevent them from drying out.

If you are using chocolate that requires melting, like for dipping strawberries, you can melt it in advance. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before dipping. Store dipped items in the fridge for a little while to set, but serve them on the board at room temperature to allow them to regain their glossy sheen and rich texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

The beauty of this charcuterie board lies in its versatility. Feel free to customize it based on the season or your personal preferences. Substitute fresh seasonal fruits like peaches or figs in the summer, or use dried fruits during the winter months for a cozy touch. Experimenting with different nut mixes, like adding honey-roasted or spiced varieties, can elevate the flavor profile.

For a more decadent touch, consider adding a few savory items such as prosciutto or salami, which can provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate and fruits. If you're catering to dietary restrictions, dairy-free cheeses or dark chocolate can be excellent substitutes that maintain the board's quality and appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to use seasonal or your favorite fruits for this charcuterie board.

→ How long can I keep the assembled board?

It's best to serve it fresh, but you can prepare the components a few hours in advance and assemble them just before serving.

→ What type of chocolate pairs best?

I recommend a blend of dark, milk, and white chocolate to cater to all taste preferences.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble them closer to serving time for the best freshness.