There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting flavors of autumn wrapped up in a fresh, vibrant dish, and that’s exactly what this Fall Fruit Salad with Maple Cinnamon Dressing Recipe delivers. Imagine juicy apples, sweet grapes, and luscious blackberries all tossed together, then drizzled with a beautifully fragrant dressing made from pure maple syrup, fresh orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon. This salad is the perfect balance of sweet and cozy spice, making it a go-to for fall gatherings, simple snacks, or even a refreshing dessert. Let me walk you through this delightful recipe that celebrates fall’s bounty while keeping things light and fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and color that make it truly special. From juicy, crisp apples to the crunchy pecans, every bite is a little adventure.
- Orange zest and juice: Adds bright citrus notes and a subtle tang that wakes up the palate.
- Maple syrup: Brings a natural, rich sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon and fruit.
- Ground cinnamon: Warms the dressing with its signature fall spice, tying all the flavors together.
- Red seedless grapes: Provide juicy bursts and a lovely pop of red color.
- Blackberries: Offer a tart balance and deep purple hue to the mix.
- Sweet apples: Bring crispness and a satisfying crunch, plus a gentle sweetness.
- Chopped pecans: Add an earthy, nutty crunch that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
How to Make Fall Fruit Salad with Maple Cinnamon Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by zesting and juicing one fresh orange into a large bowl. The zest is where most of the aromatic oils are, infusing the dressing with that unmistakable citrusy fragrance. Next, add two tablespoons of pure maple syrup and three quarters of a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk it all together until the mixture is smooth and shows no lumps, creating a fragrant, sweet-spiced dressing that will cling beautifully to your fruit.
Step 2: Add the Fruit and Nuts
Grab 16 ounces of red seedless grapes and 12 ounces of fresh blackberries—both bursting with juice—and add them right into the dressing bowl. Then, chop two large sweet apples into bite-sized pieces; their crisp texture is the perfect contrast to the softer berries. Finally, add one cup of chopped pecans, giving the salad a heavenly crunch that is impossible to resist.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Now for the fun part! Gently but thoroughly toss all the fruit and nuts with the maple cinnamon dressing, making sure every single piece is coated with that luscious, spiced sweetness. This step is what really brings the salad to life, ensuring each bite delivers an even balance of flavors.
Step 4: Serve or Store
You can enjoy the salad immediately for the freshest experience, with the bright crispness of the fruit and the aroma of fresh dressing at its peak. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve—the flavors meld more as it chills, making for an ever-so-slightly sweeter and more cohesive dish.
How to Serve Fall Fruit Salad with Maple Cinnamon Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of autumn charm, sprinkle a few additional chopped pecans or a light dusting of ground cinnamon on top just before serving. A handful of fresh mint leaves can also add a surprising pop of color and a hint of refreshing coolness against the warm spices.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with heartier fall dishes like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even alongside a creamy brie cheese platter. It adds a fresh, fruity contrast that balances out rich, savory flavors and makes holiday meals feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by serving this Fall Fruit Salad with Maple Cinnamon Dressing Recipe in hollowed-out apples or small pumpkins for a charming seasonal display. Layering the salad in clear glasses or mason jars also gives a beautiful visual effect, perfect for brunches or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the fresh fruit, it’s best enjoyed within two days to maintain its texture and vibrant flavors. Give it a gentle toss before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad since the fresh fruit will become mushy and lose its texture once thawed. If you want to preserve the ingredients, consider freezing nuts separately, but keep the salad fresh for the best experience.
Reheating
This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. Reheating would diminish the crunch and freshness, so simply take it out of the fridge a bit earlier to let it warm slightly for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits in this salad?
Absolutely! Pears, pomegranates, or even dried cranberries can add unique textures and flavors, making the salad your own. Just keep the dressing balance in mind to maintain the signature maple cinnamon touch.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan-friendly?
Since all the ingredients are plant-based, this recipe is naturally vegan. Just be sure your maple syrup is pure and not processed with animal products, and you’re good to go!
How long does the salad stay fresh?
The salad tastes best within two days of making it, as the fruit can soften over time. Storing it in the fridge in a sealed container helps keep it fresh and crunchy for as long as possible.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the maple cinnamon dressing ahead of time and keep it refrigerated in a sealed container for up to two days. Just give it a good whisk before mixing it with the fruit to combine any settled ingredients.
What if I don’t have pecans? Can I use another nut?
Definitely! Walnuts, almonds, or even toasted pumpkin seeds can be delicious substitutions. Just keep in mind that each nut brings a slightly different flavor and crunch, so pick what you like best.
Final Thoughts
This Fall Fruit Salad with Maple Cinnamon Dressing Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites for celebrating the season’s flavors in a refreshing way. It’s simple, quick, and full of vibrant textures and cozy spices that make every bite feel special. I truly hope you give it a try and find it as irresistible as I do—it’s a perfect way to brighten any autumn day or gathering!
Print
Fall Fruit Salad with Maple Cinnamon Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and refreshing Fall Fruit Salad featuring a mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a cinnamon-maple dressing, complemented by crunchy pecans. Perfect for a healthy snack or a festive side dish, this salad combines sweet, tart, and nutty flavors in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Dressing
- 1 orange (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Fruit and Nuts
- 16 ounces red seedless grapes
- 12 ounces blackberries
- 2 large sweet apples, cubed into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, combine the orange zest and juice with the maple syrup and ground cinnamon. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Add the fruit and nuts: Add the red seedless grapes, blackberries, and chopped pecans to the bowl with the dressing. Then, cube the sweet apples into bite-sized pieces and add them as well.
- Toss the salad: Immediately toss all the fruit and nuts with the dressing to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the cinnamon-maple mixture.
- Serve or store: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or cover and refrigerate it until ready to serve. The salad stays fresh and flavorful when chilled.
Notes
- Use sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best flavor.
- Chilling the salad for 30 minutes enhances the flavors.
- Pecans can be toasted lightly for extra crunch and aroma.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey if preferred.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
