Delightful Fruit and Nut Spread

Name: Delightful Fruit and Nut Spread
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews); 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Recipes

I absolutely love creating spreads that can elevate a simple breakfast or snack. This Delightful Fruit and Nut Spread has become a staple in my kitchen. Combining the natural sweetness of dried fruits with the creamy goodness of nuts, it offers a burst of flavor in every spoonful. I often use it on whole-grain toast, or as a dip for fresh apple slices. It’s so satisfying to make, and I can easily customize the ingredients based on what I have on hand. Trust me, you’ll want to try this!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:45:46.565Z

One of my favorite parts of making this spread is the way the flavors meld together. Initially, I hand-chopped the fruits and nuts, but then I discovered that a food processor gives it a wonderfully smooth texture while still keeping some crunch. This method really enhances the creaminess; it feels gourmet!

I also love experimenting with spices in my fruit and nut spread. A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract adds depth and layers of flavor that take it to the next level. It’s always a delightful surprise when I try something new!

        Reasons to Love This Spread
        Versatile and can be spread on anything from toast to pancakes
Loaded with nutrients and natural sweetness from fruits
Customizable based on your favorite nuts and fruits

      

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the ideal consistency for your Delightful Fruit and Nut Spread is all about balancing the ingredients. The chopped nuts add a delightful crunch while the addition of honey or maple syrup not only sweetens the mixture but also helps bind it together. For a creamier texture, consider blending longer in the food processor, but be careful not to overdo it. A few pulses is usually sufficient to keep some chunks intact, which adds a pleasant mouthfeel.

If you find your spread is coming out too thick, adding more honey or a splash of water can bring it to the right spreadable state. Mix well until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if your spread becomes too runny, try incorporating a few more nuts to absorb excess moisture. This flexibility in texture is one of the many reasons I love this recipe!

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to switch up ingredients according to your pantry. For instance, if you don’t have dried figs or apricots, feel free to substitute with raisins, cranberries, or any other dried fruit that you enjoy. The key is to maintain a similar volume, so if you use larger fruits like dates, chop them into smaller pieces for easier blending.

When it comes to nuts, any combination of your favorites can work. Experimenting with pecans, hazelnuts, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin can create exciting new flavors. If you're avoiding nuts due to allergies, consider crafting the spread with seeds for crunch, or try using coconut flakes for a different texture. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level might change slightly, so adjust your honey or syrup accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious spread.

Fruit and Nut Mixture

1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews)
1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix well before serving.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your spread.

Prepare the Nuts

If using whole nuts, chop them roughly to ensure they blend well. A food processor works best here!

Combine Ingredients

In the food processor, add the chopped nuts, dried fruits, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Pulse until combined but still chunky.

Adjust Consistency

If the mixture is too thick, add a little more honey or a splash of water to reach your desired spreadable consistency.

Store

Transfer your Delightful Fruit and Nut Spread to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Enjoy your homemade spread!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider toasting the nuts lightly before incorporating them into the mixture. It adds an extra depth of flavor that is simply divine.

Serving Suggestions

This Delightful Fruit and Nut Spread shines when paired with a variety of foods. Try it on whole-grain toast for a nutritious breakfast or as a filling for pancakes. For a delightful afternoon snack, it’s perfect as a dip for fresh apple slices or paired with crackers. You can also experiment with spreading it on a rice cake, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon for flair.

For special occasions, consider using the spread as a delicious filling for crepes or layering it in parfaits with yogurt and fresh fruits. It's a versatile addition to cheese boards as well—just scoop it into a bowl alongside assorted cheeses and fruits for a sophisticated touch.

Storage and Shelf Life

To maximize the freshness of your Delightful Fruit and Nut Spread, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep the texture intact and prevent it from going stale. Properly stored, the spread should last for up to two weeks, but I recommend enjoying it within the first week for the best flavor.

If you want to make a larger batch for future use, consider freezing it in smaller portions. This can be done using ice cube trays or small containers. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. This makes it incredibly easy to have on hand when you're in need of a quick breakfast or snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?

Dried fruits give a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture that fresh fruits don't provide, so it's best to stick with dried options for this recipe.

→ How long can I keep the spread?

The spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure it's in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any of your favorite nuts like pistachios, pecans, or hazelnuts.

→ Is this spread vegan?

Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, this spread is completely vegan-friendly!