Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

Featured in: Seasonal Fresh Picks

This autumn-inspired platter features roasted acorns seasoned with smoked paprika alongside toasted hazelnuts and walnuts. Complemented by dried cranberries, apricots, grapes, pumpkin seeds, and a selection of aged cheddar and brie cheeses, it offers a harmonious mix of forest-foraged flavors and textures. Garnished with fresh rosemary, this dish provides a vibrant centerpiece perfect for fall entertaining. Preparation involves roasting acorns to bring out rich, nutty aromas, balancing sweet and savory elements beautifully.

Updated on Sat, 29 Nov 2025 14:21:00 GMT
Golden roasted acorns from the Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter mingle with savory cheeses and dried fruits. Save
Golden roasted acorns from the Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter mingle with savory cheeses and dried fruits. | freshyforks.com

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

I first served this platter at a family fall gathering and it quickly became a favorite conversation starter and snack.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup raw acorns: shelled leached and dried
  • 1 tbsp olive oil:
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt:
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika:
  • 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts:
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts:
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries:
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots: halved
  • 1/2 cup seedless red grapes:
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds:
  • 100 g aged cheddar: cubed
  • 100 g brie or camembert: sliced
  • 1 small apple: cored and sliced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary sprigs: for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven:
to 350°F (175°C)
Roast acorns preparation:
In a bowl toss leached dried acorns with olive oil sea salt and smoked paprika Spread on a baking sheet
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:
with fresh rosemary sprigs Serve immediately
Save
| freshyforks.com

Our family gathers around this platter every fall it creates a rustic cozy moment we all cherish.

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

Vibrant autumn flavors displayed: the Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter laden with nuts, cheeses, and fruit. Save
Vibrant autumn flavors displayed: the Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter laden with nuts, cheeses, and fruit. | freshyforks.com

This platter brings delightful autumn flavors to your table and impresses guests with its unique ingredients.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How should acorns be prepared before roasting?

Acorns must be properly leached to remove bitterness and natural toxins. This involves soaking them in multiple water changes until the water runs clear. Once leached, dry them thoroughly before roasting.

Can roasted chestnuts be used instead of acorns?

Yes, roasted chestnuts are a suitable substitute and provide a similar nutty sweetness that complements the other platter ingredients.

What cheeses pair well with this autumn platter?

Aged cheddar and soft cheeses like brie or camembert balance the nuts and fruits, adding creamy and sharp notes to the assortment.

How can I make this platter vegan-friendly?

Replace dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives and ensure all other ingredients, like nuts and fruits, fit a vegan diet.

What drinks complement the flavors of this autumn platter?

A crisp Riesling, apple cider, or sparkling water pairs nicely, enhancing the bright and earthy flavors of the platter.

Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

An autumn-themed platter with roasted acorns, nuts, dried fruits, grapes, cheeses, and fresh rosemary garnish.

Prep time
20 minutes
Time to cook
20 minutes
Time required
40 minutes
Recipe by Freshyforks Lena Brooks


Skill level Medium

Cuisine Modern European

Portions 4 Number of servings

Diet Details Meatless

What You'll Need

Roasted Acorns

01 1 cup raw shelled, leached, and dried acorns
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
04 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika

Platter Components

01 0.5 cup toasted hazelnuts
02 0.5 cup toasted walnuts
03 0.5 cup dried cranberries
04 0.5 cup dried apricots, halved
05 0.5 cup seedless red grapes
06 0.25 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

Directions

Step 01

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 02

Prepare Acorns: Combine leached and dried acorns with olive oil, sea salt, and smoked paprika in a mixing bowl; toss to coat evenly.

Step 03

Roast Acorns: Spread acorns on a baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and aromatic; allow to cool completely.

Step 04

Assemble Platter: Arrange roasted acorns, toasted nuts, dried fruits, grapes, pumpkin seeds, cheeses, and apple slices evenly on a large serving platter.

Step 05

Garnish and Serve: Decorate platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve immediately.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy info

Review ingredients for allergens. Reach out to medical experts if you're not sure.
  • Contains tree nuts and dairy; may contain gluten traces if served with breads or crackers.

Nutritional breakdown (each serving)

This nutritional data guides only—don't treat as medical advice.
  • Energy (Calories): 340
  • Lipids: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Proteins: 9 grams