Pin I first assembled this platter for a friend's birthday brunch, nervous that gold leaf might feel too precious or fussy. But when I set it down, the whole table went quiet for a second before someone whispered, "It's almost too pretty to eat." That moment taught me something: a little shimmer and a handful of petals can turn cheese into an occasion. Now I make it whenever I want to celebrate without spending hours in the kitchen.
My neighbor saw this platter through the window once and texted me asking if I was throwing a wedding. I laughed and told her it was just Tuesday. She came over with a bottle of wine, and we sat on the porch pulling apart warm bread and talking until the sun went down. That's what this platter does—it invites people to slow down and linger.
Ingredients
- Goat cheese log: The tangy creaminess balances the richness of the other cheeses, and it holds the gold leaf beautifully without crumbling.
- Triple-cream brie: This is the one that makes people close their eyes when they taste it—soft, buttery, and just indulgent enough.
- Fresh ricotta: I used to skip ricotta on cheese boards until I realized it acts like a cloud, soaking up honey and petals with every spoonful.
- Feta: Block-style feta stays firm and clean-looking, and its salty bite keeps the platter from feeling too sweet.
- Edible gold leaf: Handle it gently—it's so delicate that even breathing too hard can send it flying across the counter.
- Yellow edible flower petals: Marigolds and calendula add color and a faint peppery note that surprises in the best way.
- Honey: A slow drizzle over the ricotta or brie turns each bite into something almost dessert-like.
- Baguette and crackers: Thin slices of warm baguette are my favorite, but crackers work when you need something sturdier for scooping.
Instructions
- Arrange the cheeses:
- Place each cheese on the platter with a little breathing room between them, imagining how hands will reach across to grab a piece. I like to offset them rather than line them up—it feels more natural and inviting.
- Apply the gold leaf:
- Use dry tweezers or a soft brush to lift tiny sheets of gold and press them gently onto the cheese surfaces. Don't worry if they tear or wrinkle—imperfection adds to the handmade charm.
- Scatter the petals:
- Let the yellow petals fall where they want to, both on the cheeses and around the edges of the platter. I learned not to overthink this step—nature is already beautiful.
- Drizzle and garnish:
- Add a thin stream of honey over the creamier cheeses, and tuck in a few sprigs of microgreens if you have them. The green breaks up the white and gold without competing for attention.
- Serve immediately:
- Set out the bread and crackers on the side and let everyone build their own bites. The platter looks best fresh, before the gold starts to dull or the petals wilt.
Pin One evening I brought this to a small dinner party, and halfway through the night, someone mentioned they'd been going through a hard time. We kept passing the platter around, and somehow it became easier to talk. I think beauty has a way of softening the room, making space for honesty alongside celebration.
Choosing Your Cheeses
I always pick cheeses with different textures—one crumbly, one spreadable, one firm. That way, every bite feels a little different. If you can't find one of these, swap it for something similar in softness or flavor rather than stressing over the exact match.
Working with Gold Leaf
Gold leaf is easier to handle than it looks, but it does cling to moisture and vanish if you're not careful. I keep a sheet of parchment nearby to catch any pieces that escape, and I work in a room with no fans or open windows. Once you press it onto the cheese, it stays put.
Serving and Pairing
This platter shines brightest when served at room temperature, so I take the cheeses out of the fridge about thirty minutes before guests arrive. A chilled glass of Champagne or a bright Sauvignon Blanc makes the whole experience feel like a toast, even on an ordinary night.
- Add sliced pears or figs if you want a touch of fruit sweetness.
- Candied nuts bring crunch and a hint of caramel that plays well with the honey.
- For a vegan version, use cashew-based or almond-based white cheeses and check that the gold leaf supplier lists it as plant-friendly.
Pin This platter taught me that elegance doesn't have to be complicated. Sometimes all you need is good cheese, a little shimmer, and the willingness to make something feel special.
Recipe FAQ
- → What types of cheeses are used in this platter?
It features creamy white cheeses including goat cheese log (chèvre), triple-cream brie, fresh ricotta, and block-style feta.
- → How is the edible gold leaf applied?
Using clean tweezers or a fine brush, small pieces of edible gold leaf are carefully placed atop the cheese surfaces for a delicate finish.
- → Are the flower petals safe to eat?
Yes, only edible yellow flower petals such as marigold, calendula, or chrysanthemum are used, sourced from reputable suppliers.
- → Can this board accommodate dietary restrictions?
It suits vegetarian and gluten-free diets; gluten-free bread or crackers can be served alongside, and dairy-free cheeses may be substituted for a vegan option.
- → What accompaniments go well with this cheese board?
Thin slices of baguette (with gluten-free options) and assorted crackers complement the rich cheeses and garnishes.