Description

This Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans is a refreshing, creamy, and delightfully sweet dish perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or summer picnics. Combining juicy red and green grapes with a luscious cream cheese dressing and topped with crunchy toasted pecans and a sprinkle of brown sugar, this salad strikes the perfect balance between fruity, creamy, and nutty textures. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and sure to become a crowd-pleaser at any table.

Whether served as a unique dessert or a side dish, this grape salad brings vibrant colors and a rich flavor profile that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, making it ideal for busy hosts.

Ingredients

• For the Salad:
• Seedless red grapes (washed and halved) 2 lbs
• Seedless green grapes (washed and halved) 2 lbs
• Cream cheese (softened) 8 oz
• Sour cream 8 oz
• Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
• Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
• For the Topping:
• Brown sugar (packed) 1/2 cup
• Pecans (chopped and toasted) 1 cup

Preparation Method

Start by preparing the creamy base for the salad. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and free of lumps. Add the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is light and creamy.

Gently fold in the red and green grapes using a spatula or large spoon. Ensure that all the grapes are evenly coated with the creamy mixture. If you prefer whole grapes, feel free to skip halving them for a chunkier texture.

To prepare the topping, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the grape salad. The brown sugar adds a subtle molasses-like sweetness that complements the creamy dressing. Finish by adding the toasted, chopped pecans on top for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the grape salad for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more refreshing when served.

When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir to mix in some of the brown sugar and pecans, or serve it as-is for an elegant presentation. This chilled grape salad is best enjoyed fresh and cold.

Tips and Conclusion

To toast the pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned. Toasting enhances their natural nuttiness and adds depth to the flavor.

For a hint of spice, sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the brown sugar topping. This adds warmth and pairs beautifully with the creamy base.

Customize the salad by adding a handful of mini marshmallows or swapping pecans for walnuts or almonds for variety.

This Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that combines fresh fruit with rich, creamy indulgence. The contrast of juicy grapes, sweet cream cheese dressing, and crunchy toasted pecans makes it a standout choice for any gathering. Serve it as a refreshing dessert, a unique side dish, or a potluck favorite—whatever the occasion, it’s sure to disappear quickly! Explore more of our delicious and easy recipes to elevate your next meal. Enjoy!