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This fall fruit salad celebrates the season's bounty with a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors. The cinnamon-maple dressing transforms ordinary fruit into a memorable dish that feels special enough for holiday gatherings yet simple enough for everyday enjoyment.
I created this recipe when hosting my first Thanksgiving as a newlywed. My mother-in-law raved about it so much that it's now expected at every family gathering from September through December.
Ingredients
- Orange: Brings bright citrus notes that balance the sweetness. Choose fruits that feel heavy for their size which indicates juiciness.
- Maple syrup: Real maple syrup provides complex sweetness. The amber or dark varieties offer more robust flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: This warming spice embodies fall. Fresh ground cinnamon will provide the most vibrant flavor.
- Red seedless grapes: Their juicy sweetness adds pleasant bursts of flavor. Look for firm grapes still attached to the stem.
- Blackberries: Their slight tartness balances the sweeter fruits. Choose plump berries without moisture in the container.
- Pecans: The buttery crunch adds wonderful texture contrast. Toast them lightly before adding for enhanced flavor.
- Sweet apples: Honeycrisp or Fuji work beautifully here. Choose firm apples with bright color and no soft spots.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dressing:
- Zest the orange first before juicing it into a large bowl. The zest contains aromatic oils that add incredible flavor dimension. Whisk in the maple syrup and cinnamon until fully combined to create a fragrant base that will coat every piece of fruit.
- Add sturdy fruits first:
- Add the grapes, blackberries and pecans to the dressing. These sturdier ingredients can handle a bit more tossing without becoming damaged. Gently fold these together using a large spatula to ensure even coating.
- Finish with apples:
- Core and cube the apples into bite-sized pieces, approximately half-inch chunks. Add them to the bowl immediately after cutting and toss everything together right away. The citrus in the dressing will prevent the apples from browning while adding bright flavor.
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The maple syrup in this recipe transformed my relationship with fruit salads. Before discovering this combination, I always found them somewhat bland, but the warm notes of maple create a dessert-like experience without overwhelming the natural flavors of the fruit.
Make It Your Own
This recipe welcomes customization based on what looks best at your market. Pears work beautifully in place of apples, offering a softer texture and delicate flavor. Cranberries can replace blackberries for a more tart profile that's especially fitting for Thanksgiving. Walnuts or sliced almonds can stand in for pecans if you prefer their flavor or have them on hand.
Storage Tips
This fruit salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours of preparation. The dressing will continue to soften the fruits over time. If you need to make it further in advance, prepare the dressing separately and combine everything just a few hours before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator, but allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Perfect Pairings
This versatile fruit salad complements both sweet and savory fall meals. Serve alongside pumpkin pancakes for a spectacular autumn brunch. For a simple dessert, spoon it over vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt. It also makes a refreshing counterpoint to heavier holiday dishes like turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes.
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Celebrate the season's bounty with this quick and festive fall fruit salad that's sure to impress your family and guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other fruits for this salad?
Yes! You can customize the salad with fruits like pears, persimmons, or pomegranate seeds for a unique twist.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Toss gently before serving.
- → What can I use instead of pecans?
You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but cube the apples just before serving to prevent browning. You can prepare the dressing and mix the other fruits in advance.
- → Is the cinnamon mandatory in the dressing?
No, cinnamon adds warmth and depth, but you can skip it or substitute with nutmeg or a pinch of ginger for a twist.