Whimsical Picket Fence Platter (Print Version)

Crisp crackers encircle a vibrant nut and berry medley, perfect for easy sharing at gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crackers (The Fence)

01 - 20–24 rectangular or oval whole wheat crackers (e.g., Melba toasts or water crackers)

→ Garden Mix

02 - 1/2 cup raw almonds
03 - 1/2 cup walnut halves
04 - 1/2 cup shelled pistachios
05 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries
06 - 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
07 - 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
08 - 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots

→ Optional Garnishes

09 - 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
10 - Fresh mint leaves

# How To Make It:

01 - Select a large, flat serving platter or board suitable for arranging components.
02 - Place crackers upright, side by side, around the platter's perimeter forming a continuous fence; angle inward slightly for stability.
03 - Gently blend almonds, walnuts, pistachios, dried cranberries, fresh blueberries, fresh raspberries, and chopped dried apricots in a medium bowl.
04 - Spoon the nut and berry mixture into the center of the cracker fence, maintaining a loose and abundant appearance.
05 - Lightly drizzle honey or agave syrup over the garden mix if desired for added sweetness.
06 - Decorate with fresh mint leaves to enhance aroma and visual appeal.
07 - Present immediately; advise guests to scoop from the center using crackers to dip or enjoy alongside the mixture.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It looks impressive without requiring you to actually cook anything.
  • The mix of textures—crisp, chewy, juicy, crunchy—keeps your mouth interested.
  • You can customize it based on what's sitting in your pantry or what the season offers.
  • Guests naturally slow down and savor instead of rushing through a snack.
02 -
  • Fresh berries can weep juice if they sit too long, so assemble this no more than 30 minutes before serving.
  • The crackers stay crispest if you don't add the honey drizzle until just before guests arrive; otherwise, they'll start to soften from the moisture.
03 -
  • Toast the nuts lightly in a dry skillet for 2 minutes if you want them to taste fresher and crunchier; they'll hold their texture even better.
  • Arrange the cracker fence in a gentle spiral instead of a perfect circle—it looks more organic and feels less staged.
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