Fruit and Nut Crackers
Discover the Delight of Homemade Fruit and Nut Crackers
There’s something utterly satisfying about the blend of flavors and textures in homemade Fruit and Nut Crackers. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a spontaneous gathering with friends. Imagine serving up crunchy, herb-infused bites that highlight the natural sweetness of dried fruits and the rich nuttiness of seeds. With a delightful mix of wholesome ingredients, these crackers are not just delicious; they offer a creative way to showcase your culinary skills.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Creating your own Fruit and Nut Crackers is a win-win for many reasons. First and foremost, they make for a quick, no-fuss snack that shines during any occasion, be it an afternoon tea party or as a part of your charcuterie board at holiday gatherings. Packed with nutrients from whole grains, nuts, and fruits, they are a healthy alternative to store-bought snacks filled with preservatives.
“These crackers are a game changer! They’re not only easy to make but taste incredible on their own or paired with cheese. My favorite go-to snack now!" – A satisfied home chef
Preparing Fruit and Nut Crackers
Making these crackers is straightforward and fun! The process involves mixing dry ingredients, combining them with wet ones, and baking until golden brown. After a brief freeze, you’ll slice and bake again for that perfect crispy texture. Get ready to enjoy a wholesome and satisfying snacking experience!
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to whip up a batch of delicious Fruit and Nut Crackers:
- Flours: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- Leavening Agent: 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- Herbs: 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried) and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- Spices: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Dried Fruit: 3/4 cup chopped dried fruits (apricots, figs, dates, raisins, cherries, etc.)
- Nuts/Seeds: 3/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (pecans, pumpkin seeds, pistachios, walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, etc.)
- Zest: 1 tablespoon orange or lemon zest
- Liquid: 1 cup milk of your choice (oat milk works great, but any kind is fine)
- Sweetener: 1/4 cup honey
Feel free to swap nuts or fruits based on your preferences or what you have on hand—be creative!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat: Set your oven to 350˚F and line two mini loaf pans (approximately 5 1/2” x 3 1/4”) with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine both flours, baking soda, salt, fresh herbs, spices, dried fruit, and nuts. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add milk and honey to the bowl, mixing until no streaks of honey remain.
- Bake: Divide the mixture between the prepared mini pans. Bake for 25-28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Cool: Let the loaves cool to room temperature. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight. These can be stored frozen for up to three months if wrapped properly.
- Slice and Second Bake: When ready to serve, preheat your oven to 300˚F. Remove from the freezer and use a serrated knife to slice the loaf into 1/8” thick slices. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place the slices and bake for 12 minutes. Flip each cracker and bake for another 12 minutes, checking for doneness. They should be golden brown and feel dry to the touch—don’t worry if they still look soft; they’ll crisp as they cool!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These Fruit and Nut Crackers shine when paired with a variety of accompaniments. Try serving them alongside creamy cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, for a delightful contrast. You can also enjoy them with hummus or a spread of yogurt mixed with herbs and spices. For a sweet touch, consider pairing them with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of fruit preserves!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your crackers fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you have leftovers, feel free to freeze them. Re-wrap tightly and they can last for up to three months! For serving after freezing, simply thaw and crisp them in the oven for a few minutes at 300˚F.
Tips for Success
- Chop Ingredients Finely: Ensuring that your dried fruits and nuts are chopped evenly will help with uniform baking.
- Experiment with Spices: Add your favorite spices or try different herbs for a unique flavor profile!
- Control Crunchiness: Keep an eye on the crackers during the final bake; they can go from perfectly crisp to overly brown quickly.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Try making these crackers with alternative flavors. Use cranberries, walnuts, and sage for a holiday touch. For a spicier kick, incorporate cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes. You could even go sweet by mixing in chocolate chips or coconut flakes!
Your Questions Answered
What type of milk can I use in the recipe?
You can use any milk you prefer! Almond, oat, coconut, or cow’s milk all work beautifully.
How long do these crackers last?
Properly stored, they can last up to a week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.
Can I substitute the nuts or dried fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap with whatever you have on hand. Just remember to keep the ratios similar for the best results.
With this handy guide, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your homemade Fruit and Nut Crackers. Happy baking!
Fruit and Nut Crackers
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350˚F and line two mini loaf pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine both flours, baking soda, salt, fresh herbs, spices, dried fruits, and nuts. Stir until well mixed.
- Add milk and honey to the bowl, mixing until no streaks of honey remain.
- Divide the mixture between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Let the loaves cool to room temperature, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- When ready to serve, preheat your oven to 300˚F. Remove from the freezer and slice into 1/8" thick slices.
- Place the slices on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes. Flip each cracker and bake for another 12 minutes, checking for doneness.
