Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

Featured in: Daybreak Buddy Bites

This autumn-themed platter blends roasted acorns with toasted hazelnuts and walnuts, paired with dried cranberries, apricots, grapes, and pumpkin seeds. Cubes of aged cheddar and slices of brie add creamy texture, balanced by crisp apple slices and fresh rosemary garnish. The roasted acorns offer a unique, earthy flavor, enhanced by smoked paprika and sea salt. Ideal for fall gatherings, this visually appealing dish combines forest-foraged ingredients and seasonal fruits with rich cheeses to create a flavorful centerpiece.

Updated on Sat, 29 Nov 2025 12:12:00 GMT
A beautifully arranged squirrels acorn hoard platter, bursting with autumnal flavors, and vibrant colors. Save to Pinterest
A beautifully arranged squirrels acorn hoard platter, bursting with autumnal flavors, and vibrant colors. | buddybiteskitchen.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 essence of forest foraging to your table and is always a conversation starter during our family autumn evenings.

Ingredients

  • 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
  • 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

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
Arrange 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
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| buddybiteskitchen.com

This platter always brings our family together as we share stories and enjoy the tastes of the season.

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

Golden roasted acorns mingle with cheeses, fruits, and nuts on this delightful squirrels acorn hoard platter. Save to Pinterest
Golden roasted acorns mingle with cheeses, fruits, and nuts on this delightful squirrels acorn hoard platter. | buddybiteskitchen.com

A truly unique appetizer that captures the spirit of autumn in every bite.

Common Recipe Questions

How are the acorns prepared to remove bitterness?

Acorns must be leached by soaking and rinsing repeatedly to eliminate tannins, making them safe and palatable for roasting.

Can I substitute acorns with other nuts?

Yes, roasted chestnuts or other mild nuts can replace acorns if they are unavailable or undesired.

What cheeses complement this platter best?

Aged cheddar and creamy cheeses like brie or camembert pair well, but vegan alternatives can be used for plant-based options.

What beverages pair well with this autumn platter?

Crisp Riesling, cider, or sparkling water enhance the flavors and freshness of the ensemble.

Are there any allergen concerns to consider?

This dish contains tree nuts and dairy; also, potential gluten traces if served with breads or crackers.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The preparation and cooking together take about 40 minutes, including roasting acorns and assembling the platter.

Squirrels Acorn Hoard Platter

An autumn-inspired platter combining roasted acorns, nuts, dried fruits, and cheeses for seasonal enjoyment.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Created By Max Buddyfield

Recipe Category Daybreak Buddy Bites

Skill Level Medium

Cuisine Type Modern European

Recipe Yield 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences Suitable for Vegetarians, Free of Gluten

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 oz aged cheddar, cubed
08 3.5 oz brie or camembert, sliced
09 1 small apple, cored and sliced
10 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Steps to Follow

Step 01

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

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 and spread on a baking sheet.

Step 03

Roast Acorns: Roast the acorns for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through until golden and aromatic; remove and allow to cool completely.

Step 04

Assemble Platter: Arrange roasted acorns, toasted hazelnuts and walnuts, dried cranberries and apricots, seedless grapes, pumpkin seeds, cubed cheddar, sliced brie, and apple slices gracely on a large serving platter.

Step 05

Garnish and Serve: Decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve immediately to maintain optimal freshness.

Tools You'll Need

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

Allergy Warnings

Review each ingredient carefully for allergens. If unsure, consult with a healthcare provider.
  • Contains tree nuts (acorns, hazelnuts, walnuts) and dairy products (cheeses). May contain gluten traces if served with crackers or bread.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for general information only. Always consult a healthcare professional for dietary concerns.
  • Calorie Count: 340
  • Fat Content: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Protein Content: 9 grams