Cheese Selection for a Dessert Platter: A Global Delight

Creating a cheese platter that seamlessly transitions from savory to sweet can be a culinary adventure. This guide provides a range of cheese recommendations to help you craft the perfect dessert platter.

A Classic Choice: Aged Cheeses for the Platter

When it comes to a dessert platter, a selection of aged cheeses adds a perfect touch of depth and tanginess. Here are a few recommendations:

Aged Gouda: While Gouda is familiar, it offers a more refined taste than mass-produced options, making it a delightful choice. Cheddar: A one-year-old cheddar is a standard, very delicious choice that doesn't go out of style. Bleu or Others: Opt for a triple cream Brie, Maytag, or another similar bleu cheese variety. These creamy, rich cheeses pair perfectly with fruit and sweet desserts. Havarti: For a smokier flavor, consider smoked Havarti, ensuring the smokiness is authentic, not just a flavoring. Gorgonzola: A veined cheese that adds a sharp, salty bite to balance other sweeter elements in the platter.

Soft and Semi-Soft Cheeses for Creaminess and Balance

Soft or semi-soft cheeses add a creamy, sweet contrast to the saltiness and tanginess of aged and hard cheeses. Here are some recommendations:

Goat Cheese: A spreadable goat cheese can provide a smooth, creamy texture and a touch of acidity that balances savory fruits. Camembert: While Camembert can be earthy, it's better suited for more robust, savory appetizers, not dessert platters. Instead, opt for a milder goat cheese. Chevre: Fresh or aged goat cheese, known as chevre, is a versatile option. Try in-season varieties like blueberry or cranberry chevre, which are surprisingly sweet and creamy.

Adding Depth with Salt and Sweetness

For a well-rounded dessert platter, consider combining cheese with elements that enhance the taste experience:

Washed-Rind Cheeses: These cheeses, such as Epoisses or Taleggio, offer a pleasant, slightly “off” flavor that complements desserts. Parmesan Crisps: Including thin, crispy slices of sourdough bread with Parmesan (Trader Joe’s parmesan crisps are a must-try) adds a salty element that balances the richness of the cheeses. Fig Compote: Fresh figs or dried figs, drizzled with honey, add a sweet, fruity note that pairs wonderfully with savory and creamy elements. Grapes: Adding a few small clusters of grapes brings a refreshing contrast to the pressed and creamy textures.

Creating Balance with Fruit and Flavor

The key to a successful dessert platter is balance. Here are a few suggestions:

Vanilla or Cinnamon Flavored Cheeses: Some people enjoy salty and sugary combinations, but for a more refined touch, try vanilla or cinnamon flavored cheeses to add a subtle sweetness. Blueve: Fruited chevre, whether blueberry, cranberry, or other varieties, offer a refreshing, sweet contrast to the savory elements. Fresh Gruyere: Cave-aged gruyere, with its rich, creamy texture and slightly salty flavor, serves as an excellent base for creating a balanced platter.

By carefully selecting and balancing aged, soft, and sweet cheeses, you can create a dessert platter that is both satisfying and delightful, serving as a memorable centerpiece for your next gathering.

Remember, the best platters are those where each cheese complements and balances the others. Whether you’re a cheese expert or just starting your journey, these tips will guide you in crafting the perfect dessert platter.