Save to Pinterest 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 was an instant hit with everyone appreciating the unique forest flavors.
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.
Save to Pinterest This platter brings back fond memories of gathering nuts and fruits in autumn woods with my family.
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
Save to Pinterest This platter is a delightful way to celebrate autumn flavors in a festive and healthy way.
Recipe FAQs
- → How should acorns be prepared before roasting?
Acorns need to be properly leached to remove bitterness and toxins, usually by soaking in water with periodic rinsing, before drying and roasting.
- → Can substitutes replace acorns in this platter?
Yes, roasted chestnuts can be used as a similar alternative if acorns are unavailable or difficult to prepare.
- → What cheeses complement the nut and fruit flavors best?
Aged cheddar and soft cheeses like brie or camembert add creamy and sharp notes balancing the roasted and dried ingredients.
- → How can this platter be adapted for a plant-based diet?
Cheeses can be swapped with vegan alternatives, maintaining similar textures and flavors for a fully plant-based spread.
- → What beverage pairings enhance this autumn platter?
Crisp Riesling, apple cider, or sparkling water are excellent choices to refresh the palate alongside the rich and nutty flavors.