Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

Featured in: Evening Glow Plates

This autumn-inspired platter brings together roasted acorns with toasted hazelnuts, walnuts, dried fruits, seed clusters, and aged cheeses for a vibrant assembly. The roasted acorns are seasoned with olive oil, sea salt, and smoked paprika, providing warm, earthy flavors that complement the variety of textures and tastes from the nuts, fruits, and fresh rosemary garnish. Ideal for sharing during fall gatherings, this dish balances nutty crunch with mild fruit sweetness and creamy cheese. Proper acorn preparation ensures a pleasant experience, and substitutions like chestnuts help accommodate preferences.

Updated on Sat, 29 Nov 2025 16:48:00 GMT
Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter: a beautifully arranged appetizer platter with fragrant roasted acorns and fall fruits. Save
Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter: a beautifully arranged appetizer platter with fragrant roasted acorns and fall fruits. | cheerfulchefs.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 always delights guests during fall parties and brings a touch of the forest to the table.

Ingredients

  • Raw acorns: 1 cup shelled, leached, and dried
  • 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:
350°F (175°C)
Prepare acorns:
Toss leached, dried acorns with olive oil sea salt and smoked paprika and spread on a baking sheet
Roast:
Roast acorns for 15 20 minutes stirring halfway through until golden and fragrant Cool completely
Arrange platter:
Arrange roasted acorns toasted nuts dried fruits grapes seeds cheeses and apple slices attractively on a large platter
Garnish:
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs Serve immediately
Rustic Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter with golden roasted acorns, nuts, and ripe brie ready to enjoy. Save
Rustic Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter with golden roasted acorns, nuts, and ripe brie ready to enjoy. | cheerfulchefs.com

Gathering this platter has become a cherished family ritual every autumn as we forage and prepare the ingredients together.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairs well with a crisp Riesling cider or sparkling water to balance the nuts and cheese flavors.

Storage Tips

Store leftover roasted acorns in an airtight container for up to one week for best freshness.

Serving Ideas

Serve the platter with artisan bread or crackers to add texture and variety.

Delectable Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter featuring colorful dried fruits alongside tempting roasted acorn bites. Save
Delectable Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter featuring colorful dried fruits alongside tempting roasted acorn bites. | cheerfulchefs.com

This appetizer platter brings warmth and joy to any fall gathering with natural flavors and textures.

Recipe FAQs

How are the acorns prepared to remove bitterness?

Acorns must be leached by soaking in water to remove tannins and bitterness, then dried before roasting to ensure a smooth, nutty flavor.

Can chestnuts be used instead of acorns?

Yes, roasted chestnuts serve as a great alternative, offering a sweet, tender texture that complements the other platter elements.

What cheeses pair well with this platter?

Aged cheddar and brie or camembert create a balanced flavor profile, but vegan cheese alternatives can also be used to suit dietary needs.

What beverages complement this autumn-inspired platter?

Crisp Riesling, refreshing cider, or sparkling water enhance the nutty and fruity notes without overpowering the flavors.

How should I serve the platter for gatherings?

Arrange all components attractively on a large serving platter with fresh rosemary sprigs as garnish, serving immediately for best freshness.

Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

An autumnal platter with roasted acorns, mixed nuts, dried fruits, and cheeses, perfect for fall entertaining.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Overall Time
40 minutes
Creator Ruby Smiles

Recipe Type Evening Glow Plates

Skill Level Medium

Cuisine Background Modern European

Portions 4 Serves

Dietary Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly

What You’ll 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 for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

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

Step 02

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

Step 03

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

Step 04

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

Step 05

Garnish and Serve: Decorate the arrangement with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve immediately to preserve freshness.

Tools You’ll Need

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

Potential Allergens

Inspect ingredients for specific allergens and contact a professional for concerns.
  • Contains tree nuts and dairy.
  • May contain traces of gluten if paired with crackers or bread.

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Provided as supportive info; always cross-check with your healthcare provider.
  • Calories: 340
  • Fats: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Proteins: 9 grams