Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

Featured in: Seasonal Tradition Picks

This autumn-themed platter combines roasted acorns, toasted hazelnuts and walnuts, dried cranberries and apricots, seedless grapes, pumpkin seeds, aged cheddar, brie, and fresh apple slices. The roasted acorns, tender and smoky, bring a unique forest flavor, balanced by creamy cheeses and sweet fruits. Garnished with fresh rosemary for a fragrant touch, it makes a stunning centerpiece ideal for fall sharing.

Preparation involves roasting properly leached acorns tossed with olive oil, sea salt, and smoked paprika, followed by assembling all components attractively on a large serving platter. Perfect for medium-difficulty cook soirées, this vegetarian option pairs well with crisp Riesling or cider.

Updated on Sat, 29 Nov 2025 14:13:00 GMT
A beautifully arranged Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter with roasted acorns, nuts, and fresh apple slices. Save to Pinterest
A beautifully arranged Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter with roasted acorns, nuts, and fresh apple slices. | recipesforevers.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 quickly became a favorite at our family fall dinners, sparking conversations and compliments every time.

Ingredients

  • For the Roasted Acorns: 1 cup raw acorns (shelled, leached, and dried see Notes), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • For the Platter: 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

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2:
For the roasted acorns In a bowl toss leached dried acorns with olive oil sea salt and smoked paprika Spread on a baking sheet.
Step 3:
Roast acorns for 15 20 minutes stirring halfway through until golden and fragrant Cool completely.
Step 4:
Arrange roasted acorns toasted nuts dried fruits grapes seeds cheeses and apple slices attractively on a large platter.
Step 5:
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs Serve immediately.
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| recipesforevers.com

This platter brings our family together every fall reminding us of crisp walks and cozy evenings by the fire.

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

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

Golden roasted acorns and vibrant fruits star in this delicious Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter appetizer. Save to Pinterest
Golden roasted acorns and vibrant fruits star in this delicious Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter appetizer. | recipesforevers.com

This platter is an effortless way to elevate your fall gatherings with natural flavors and festive colors.

Recipe FAQs

How should acorns be prepared before roasting?

Acorns must be leached to remove bitterness and toxins by soaking in water and changing the water regularly. After leaching, dry them thoroughly before roasting.

Can any nuts be substituted for hazelnuts and walnuts?

Yes, similar toasted tree nuts like almonds or pecans work well and offer a comparable texture and flavor.

What cheeses complement this autumn platter?

Aged cheddar and soft cheeses like brie or camembert add creamy richness and balance the nutty and fruity elements.

Is the platter suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes, it contains only plant-based ingredients and dairy, making it appropriate for vegetarians.

What beverage pairings enhance this platter's flavors?

Try crisp Riesling, apple cider, or sparkling water to complement the savory, nutty, and fruity notes.

Can the platter be made vegan?

Replacing cheeses with vegan alternatives allows a fully plant-based version without sacrificing flavor variety.

Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

A fall platter with roasted acorns, nuts, dried fruits, cheeses, and fresh rosemary for seasonal gatherings.

Prep Duration
20 minutes
Time to Cook
20 minutes
Complete Duration
40 minutes


Complexity Medium

Cuisine Modern European

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Info Meatless

What You Need

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

Directions

Step 01

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

Step 02

Prepare Acorn Mixture: Combine the 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 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.

Step 04

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

Step 05

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

Essential Tools

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

Allergy Details

Be sure to check every item for allergens. If uncertain, talk with a healthcare provider.
  • Contains tree nuts and dairy. May contain gluten traces if served with bread or crackers.

Nutrition per serving

Nutrition details are for your reference only. Always speak with a professional for medical concerns.
  • Caloric Content: 340
  • Total Fat: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Proteins: 9 grams