Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

Featured in: Fresh Citrus Plates

This autumn-inspired platter combines freshly roasted acorns with toasted hazelnuts, walnuts, and a medley of dried cranberries and apricots. Complemented by seedless grapes, pumpkin seeds, aged cheddar, brie, and crisp apple slices, it offers a balanced blend of forest-foraged flavors and textures. Garnished with fresh rosemary, it's ideal for seasonal gatherings seeking both earthiness and elegance. Preparation involves simple roasting and careful arrangement, making it a delightful centerpiece.

Updated on Sat, 29 Nov 2025 10:39:00 GMT
Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter, featuring golden roasted acorns, nuts, and a colorful array of fruits and cheeses. Save
Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter, featuring golden roasted acorns, nuts, and a colorful array of fruits and cheeses. | citrusfold.com

A whimsical, autumn-inspired appetizer platter featuring roasted acorns, nuts, dried fruits, and forest-foraged flavors—a perfect centerpiece for fall gatherings.

This platter brings the forest to your table with every bite, reminding me of cozy autumn walks collecting nuts and fruits.

Ingredients

  • Raw acorns: 1 cup (shelled leached and dried see Notes)
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp
  • Sea salt: 1/2 tsp
  • Smoked paprika: 1/4 tsp
  • Toasted hazelnuts: 1/2 cup
  • Toasted walnuts: 1/2 cup
  • Dried cranberries: 1/2 cup
  • Dried apricots: 1/2 cup halved
  • Seedless red grapes: 1/2 cup
  • Pumpkin seeds: 1/4 cup
  • Aged cheddar: 100 g cubed
  • Brie or camembert: 100 g sliced
  • Small apple: 1 cored and sliced
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs: 1 tbsp for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare acorns:
In a bowl toss leached dried acorns with olive oil sea salt and smoked paprika Spread on a baking sheet.
Roast acorns:
Roast acorns for 15–20 minutes stirring halfway through until golden and fragrant Cool completely.
Assemble platter:
Arrange roasted acorns toasted nuts dried fruits grapes seeds cheeses and apple slices attractively on a large platter.
Garnish and serve:
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs Serve immediately.
A beautiful Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter with rosemary garnish, perfect for a cozy autumn spread. Save
A beautiful Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter with rosemary garnish, perfect for a cozy autumn spread. | citrusfold.com

This platter always sparks joyful conversations and memories of family hikes through the woods each fall.

Required Tools

Baking sheet Mixing bowl Sharp knife Large serving platter

Allergen Information

Contains tree nuts (acorns hazelnuts walnuts) dairy (cheese) May contain traces of gluten if served with crackers or breads Always check product labels for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern

Nutritional Information

Calories 340 Total Fat 21 g Carbohydrates 28 g Protein 9 g per serving

Imagine the textures: rustic roasted acorns on a vibrant Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter, ready to enjoy. Save
Imagine the textures: rustic roasted acorns on a vibrant Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter, ready to enjoy. | citrusfold.com

This platter embodies the spirit of autumn in every bite — simple beautiful and bursting with seasonal flavors.

Recipe FAQs

How do I properly prepare acorns for cooking?

Acorns must be leached to remove bitterness and toxins. This typically involves soaking them in water with frequent changes until the water runs clear before roasting.

Can I substitute acorns if unavailable?

Yes, roasted chestnuts make a good alternative, providing a similar nutty texture and flavor to the platter.

What cheeses pair well with this platter?

Aged cheddar and soft cheeses like brie or camembert complement the nuts and fruits, balancing richness and creaminess.

How should I serve the platter for gatherings?

Arrange all components evenly on a large flat dish, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs for aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately for best freshness.

What beverages pair nicely with these flavors?

Crisp Riesling, cider, or sparkling water enhances the autumnal and nutty notes without overwhelming the palate.

Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

Whimsical autumn platter featuring roasted acorns, nuts, dried fruits, cheeses, and fresh rosemary sprigs.

Prep time
20 minutes
Time to cook
20 minutes
Total duration
40 minutes
Provided by Lena Brookfield

Recipe group Fresh Citrus Plates

Skill level Medium

Cuisine type Modern European

Makes 4 Serving count

Diet details Meat-free, Contains no gluten

Ingredient list

Roasted Acorns

01 1 cup raw acorns, shelled, leached, and dried
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
04 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Platter Components

01 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts
02 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
03 1/2 cup dried cranberries
04 1/2 cup dried apricots, halved
05 1/2 cup seedless red grapes
06 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
07 3.5 ounces aged cheddar, cubed
08 3.5 ounces brie or camembert, sliced
09 1 small apple, cored and sliced
10 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish

How to Make It

Step 01

Preheat Oven: Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for roasting.

Step 02

Prepare Acorns: In a mixing bowl, combine the leached and dried acorns with olive oil, sea salt, and smoked paprika. Toss to evenly coat.

Step 03

Roast Acorns: Spread the seasoned acorns on a baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through until golden and aromatic. Allow to cool completely before plating.

Step 04

Assemble Platter: Artistically arrange roasted acorns, toasted hazelnuts and walnuts, dried cranberries and apricots, seedless grapes, pumpkin seeds, cheeses, and apple slices on a large serving platter.

Step 05

Garnish and Serve: Finish with fresh rosemary sprigs as garnish and serve immediately to maintain freshness.

What You Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Large serving platter

Allergy details

Always check ingredients for allergens. When unsure, talk to your healthcare provider.
  • Contains tree nuts (acorns, hazelnuts, walnuts) and dairy (cheeses).
  • May contain traces of gluten if served with crackers or breads.

Nutrition per serving

Provided for informational purposes. Doesn't replace advice from your doctor.
  • Calories count: 340
  • Fat content: 21 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 9 g