Picket Fence Snack Platter (Printable)

Crisp crackers frame a colorful mix of nuts and fresh berries, ideal for easy entertaining and light snacking.

# Ingredient List:

→ Crackers (The Fence)

01 - 20–24 rectangular or oval whole wheat crackers (such as Melba toasts or water crackers)

→ Garden Mix

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

→ Optional Garnishes

09 - 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (for drizzling)
10 - Fresh mint leaves

# How to Make:

01 - Select a large, flat serving platter or board to accommodate the arrangement.
02 - Position crackers upright, side by side, around the platter’s edge creating a continuous picket fence. Angle slightly inward for stability if needed.
03 - Gently mix almonds, walnut halves, shelled 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 enclosed by the crackers, ensuring a loose and abundant presentation.
05 - Lightly drizzle honey or agave syrup over the mix if desired, then garnish with fresh mint leaves to enhance aroma and visual appeal.
06 - Present immediately, encouraging guests to scoop from the center using crackers as dippers or accompaniments.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It looks like you spent hours fussing when it actually takes less time than most snacks.
  • The crunch of the crackers mixed with soft berries hits your mouth in this perfect sequence that feels more satisfying than it should.
  • Everyone gravitates toward it—not because they feel obligated, but because the whole composition makes them want to dig in.
02 -
  • If your crackers start to soften, you've assembled too early—wait until guests are arriving to build this, or keep the fence and center separate and combine just before serving.
  • The honey drizzle seems optional but it's the difference between a nice platter and one that feels intentional and restaurant-quality; even a light touch matters.
03 -
  • Toast your nuts lightly beforehand if you want them to taste more pronounced—five minutes in a dry skillet over medium heat changes everything.
  • The cracker angle is everything: tilt them too far out and they topple, too far in and they look cluttered; aim for a 10–15 degree inward lean for that picket fence feeling that actually works.
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