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 4
Ingredients: 1 cup strawberries; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1 cup marshmallows; 1/2 cup mixed nuts; 1/2 cup cheese selection (brie, cheddar); 1/2 cup crackers or pretzels; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Sea salt, for garnish

Highlighted under: Celebration Recipes

I absolutely love putting together a Valentines Charcuterie Board, especially when it features a decadent chocolate fondue! It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy a variety of sweet and savory combinations. The rich, melty chocolate pairs so well with fresh fruits, crunchy nuts, and savory cheeses. I find joy in arranging the board to make it visually appealing, and it's always a hit at gatherings. With a bit of creativity, you can customize it to include all your favorite bites, making it a personal treat.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:25:34.990Z

When I first served this charcuterie board, it was a surprise for my partner, and the reaction was priceless! Watching them dip strawberries and marshmallows into the warm chocolate fondue was such a joy. I initially thought it would be complicated, but it’s surprisingly easy to put together. Just melt some chocolate, arrange the snacks, and you’re set.

One tip I learned is to keep the chocolate warm with a slow cooker on low heat. This way, the chocolate remains silky smooth throughout your gathering, allowing everyone to enjoy every last drop. Plus, adding a sprinkle of sea salt to the chocolate elevates the flavor beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful combination of sweet and savory treats on one board
The luxurious experience of dipping your favorites into warm chocolate
Interactive and perfect for sharing with friends or a loved one

Crafting the Perfect Charcuterie Board

Creating an inviting charcuterie board starts with selecting a variety of textures and flavors. Aim for a balance of soft and hard cheeses, like creamy brie and sharp cheddar, to cater to different tastes. I prefer choosing seasonal fruits such as strawberries and pineapples for their natural sweetness, which can elevate the overall flavor profile. Additionally, consider adding some dried fruits or olives for an extra layer of taste and visual appeal.

When arranging your board, think about the composition. Place larger items like cheeses and bowls of chocolate fondue first, then fill in with fruits, nuts, and crackers. I like to group items in clusters and incorporate height by adding a few nuts in small mounds for an organic look. Remember to leave space for the chocolate fondue; the visual focus should draw your guests in, inviting them to dip and explore.

Tips for the Chocolate Fondue

The chocolate fondue is the star of this recipe, and getting it just right is key. Use high-quality dark chocolate to ensure a rich flavor profile. I recommend a chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for depth without being overly bitter. The combination of chocolate and heavy cream creates a silky texture, so make sure to stir continuously while melting over simmering water to prevent burning and achieve that glossy finish.

If you find your fondue is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, be patient and allow it to chill slightly to firm up, as the chocolate will naturally thicken upon cooling. Serving the fondue warm is essential for dipping, so keep it in a warm spot during your gathering.

Ingredients

For the charcuterie board

1 cup strawberries
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 cup marshmallows
1/2 cup mixed nuts
1/2 cup cheese selection (brie, cheddar)
1/2 cup crackers or pretzels

For the chocolate fondue

8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Sea salt, for garnish

Preparation

Steps

Prepare the chocolate fondue

In a heatproof bowl, combine chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt. Transfer to a serving bowl.

Arrange the charcuterie board

On a large wooden board or platter, artfully arrange the strawberries, pineapple, marshmallows, mixed nuts, cheese, and crackers. Leave space in the center for the bowl of chocolate fondue.

Serve and enjoy

Gather your loved ones around the board, provide skewers or forks, and enjoy dipping your selections into the rich chocolate fondue. Don’t forget to share!

Enjoy your fondue experience!

Pro Tips

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients on your board. Adding some cookies or thinly sliced apples can introduce new flavors and textures. Keep the chocolate warm for a more enjoyable experience.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to adapt the fruit selection based on seasonal availability. For example, replace strawberries with raspberries or apples for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a more savory twist, consider adding sliced salami or prosciutto alongside your cheeses—this can nicely contrast the sweetness of the fondue and fruits. The beauty of a charcuterie board is in its versatility; tailor it to your liking!

For those with dietary restrictions, substitute standard chocolate with dairy-free or nut-based alternatives. There are excellent vegan dark chocolates on the market that can provide a similar rich taste without compromised flavor. Additionally, you can switch out the heavy cream for a coconut cream option, which will enhance the sweetness and provide a tropical note.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

To enhance the communal experience, consider providing individual skewers or fondue forks for each guest. This encourages mingling and makes the dipping process feel interactive. I also recommend having a variety of dippers like pretzels, cookies, or even crunchy vegetables for a unique addition to your board—these can balance the sweetness of the chocolate.

After your gathering, if you have leftovers, store the chocolate fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated gently in a microwave or over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth texture. The assembled charcuterie board, however, is best enjoyed fresh; ingredients like fruits may not store well together due to moisture, so consider preparing those closer to serving time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will create a sweeter fondue that's delicious as well.

→ How can I keep the fondue warm during the gathering?

A slow cooker on the lowest setting is perfect for keeping the chocolate melted without burning.

→ What other fruits can I add to the board?

Bananas, apples, and watermelon are also great options. Choose fruits that are in season for the best flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for a larger group?

Yes, simply increase the quantities of each ingredient to accommodate more guests, adjusting to your preferences.