Print

Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Grape Salad with Toasted Pecans

cinnamon-spiced apple grape salad - featured image

This easy, fresh, and healthy fruit salad combines crisp apples, sweet red grapes, and crunchy toasted pecans with a cozy cinnamon dressing. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or a light dessert, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala, about 12 oz)—cored and diced, skin on
  • 1 1/2 cups red seedless grapes—halved
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans—roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of fine sea salt
  • Optional: 1/4 cup dried cranberries or golden raisins
  • Optional: 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chia seeds

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecans on a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast for 6–8 minutes, stirring halfway, until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool, then roughly chop. (Alternatively, toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.)
  2. Wash and dry apples and grapes. Core apples and chop into 1/2-inch cubes, leaving skin on. Halve grapes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. If using Greek yogurt, whisk it in until smooth. Optional: stir in chia seeds.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, add diced apples and halved grapes. Pour cinnamon dressing over fruit and toss gently until evenly coated.
  5. Add toasted pecans and any optional add-ins (cranberries, raisins, etc.). Stir to combine.
  6. Chill salad for 10 minutes in the fridge to let flavors mingle. Before serving, toss again and drizzle extra honey if desired. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

For best crunch, add pecans just before serving. Use firm, cold apples for best texture. To make vegan, use maple syrup or agave and coconut yogurt. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; keep pecans separate for maximum crunch. Customize with other fruits or nuts as desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple grape salad, cinnamon fruit salad, healthy fruit salad, autumn salad, brunch, gluten-free, vegan option, pecan salad, easy salad, potluck