As the leaves start to carpet the ground with hues of red and gold, I find myself craving the comforting flavors of fall. That’s why I’m excited to share my Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad with you. It’s a delightful blend of sweet, crunchy apples and tart cranberries, all wrapped in a luscious cinnamon-infused cream cheese dressing. This autumn fruit salad isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a crowd-pleaser that can elevate any fall gathering. With its quick prep time and the ability to keep well chilled, it makes for an effortless side dish to impress your friends and family. Will you be the one to bring a burst of autumn goodness to your next potluck?
Why is this fruit salad irresistible?
Fall Flavors: This Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad captures the essence of autumn with its inviting combination of sweet apples and warm spices.
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful salad in no time—perfect for busy hosts!
Versatility: It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making it a go-to side for holiday meals, barbecues, or brunch gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: Your guests will rave about this delicious fruit salad, especially when they taste that creamy, cinnamon-infused dressing.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dressing a day ahead to save time, ensuring you’re ready to impress without the stress! For a complete autumn menu, try it alongside our Cinnamon Roll Cookies for dessert!
Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad Ingredients
For the Dressing
- Neufchatel cheese – A creamy base that makes the dressing rich; substitute with light cream cheese for a lighter option.
- Light brown sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness with a hint of molasses; for less sugar, try using coconut sugar.
- Ground cinnamon – This spice enhances warmth in the dish; a hint of nutmeg can complement its flavor beautifully.
- Ground nutmeg – Adds a subtle nutty depth to the mix; while optional, it’s highly recommended for enhanced flavor.
- Light sour cream – Provides a creamy tang that elevates the dressing; Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative for a healthier twist.
- Vanilla extract – Brings a wonderful sweetness to the dressing; omit if you prefer a simpler taste.
For the Salad
- Crisp, sweet apples – The main fruit that should ideally be a mix of Gala, Jazz, or Golden Delicious; can swap for other sweet varieties if desired.
- Cold water – Used for soaking apples and preventing browning; no alternatives needed here.
- Fresh lemon juice – Helps keep the apples fresh and bright; lime juice can be used in a pinch if needed.
- Chopped Fishers walnuts – Adds delightful crunch and depth; feel free to substitute with pecans for a different taste.
- Dried cranberries – Imparts a lovely tartness and color to the salad; raisins or dried cherries work as sweet alternatives.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of Neufchatel cheese until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Gradually add in 1/4 cup of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Once combined, fold in 1/2 cup of light sour cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Chill the dressing while you prepare the apples, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare Apples
In a medium bowl, mix 1 cup of cold water with the juice of 1 lemon to create an apple soak. Dice about 4 cups of crisp, sweet apples into bite-sized cubes, then briefly immerse them in the mixture for about 5 minutes. Drain the apples thoroughly to keep them fresh and prevent browning, ensuring they remain vibrant in your Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, gently combine the soaked apples with ¾ cup of the dressing you prepared earlier. Fold in about 3/4 cup of chopped Fishers walnuts and 3/4 cup of dried cranberries. Toss everything together delicately to ensure each apple piece is evenly coated without breaking them, creating a beautiful blend of flavors and textures in your fruit salad.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of walnuts and cranberries on top of the salad for an inviting presentation. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and keep the salad chilled. Enjoy your Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad within an hour to experience the freshest flavors, perfect for autumn gatherings.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days, though the apples may brown slightly over time.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of apples and dressing may change after thawing, compromising the creamy delight.
Reheating: Since this salad is best served chilled, simply give it a gentle stir if it has settled; avoid heating as it may alter the flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can make the dressing up to 24 hours in advance; just keep it chilled in an airtight container to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Chop the apples and soak them in the lemon-water mixture just before serving to prevent browning. If you’re preparing in advance, you can also mix the walnuts and cranberries into the dressing, but for the best texture, I recommend adding them just before serving. This way, your fruit salad stays fresh and crunchy, delighting your guests with its vibrant flavors!
Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad Variations
Explore the endless possibilities of delightful twists to make this creamy fruit salad uniquely yours!
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Nut Alternatives: Try slivered almonds or pecans for a different crunchy flavor. Each nut adds its unique taste, elevating the salad’s profile.
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Sweet Swap: Change dried cranberries to raisins or chopped apricots for a sweeter touch. This simple switch can brighten the salad and add a contrasting texture.
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Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks or mandarin oranges for a fun tropical flair. The juicy fruit will bring a sun-kissed taste that’s refreshing and inviting.
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Dairy-Free Option: Replace Neufchatel cheese and sour cream with coconut cream and a dairy-free yogurt. This creamy vegan twist offers all the flavors while catering to dietary preferences.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of cinnamon for heat. This unexpected twist offers a unique, tantalizing contrast to the sweetness.
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Layering Flavors: Add some grated ginger into the dressing for an aromatic and zesty boost. This little addition will complement the autumn flavors beautifully.
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Fruit Medley: Combine apples with pears or even pomegranate seeds for an exciting mix of textures. The variety makes each bite an adventure and adds a splash of color.
For even more delicious options, consider serving this salad alongside an inviting Cinnamon Roll Cookies dessert or a refreshing Pasta Salad Bliss at your next gathering!
Expert Tips for Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad
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Prep Ahead: To save time, make the dressing a day in advance. Just remember to cut the apples right before serving to keep them crisp!
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Gentle Mixing: Stir the ingredients gently when combining to maintain the integrity of the apple pieces. This preserves the salad’s delightful texture.
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Substitution Smarts: If you’re aiming for a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and try reducing the sugar for a lighter salad without sacrificing flavor.
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Apples Choice: Opt for a mix of sweet apple varieties to enhance taste; Gala, Jazz, and Golden Delicious create a harmonious flavor profile in your Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad.
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Keep it Fresh: Use lemon juice in the soak to prevent browning of the apples. It keeps your fruit salad looking fresh and vibrant for those fall potlucks!
What to Serve with Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad
As the leaves turn, pair this delightful autumn salad with warm dishes that highlight the season’s flavors and comforts.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The caramelized sweetness and warm spices complement the fruit salad’s tartness, creating a cozy combination.
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Maple-Glazed Carrots: Their earthy sweetness ties together the dish’s vibrant flavors while adding a lovely pop of color to your spread.
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Herbed Grilled Chicken: Succulent and savory, the grilled chicken adds protein to the meal, making it heartier without overpowering the salad’s freshness.
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Wild Rice Pilaf: The nutty flavor of wild rice harmonizes beautifully with the creamy dressing, offering a delightful texture contrast to the salad.
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Apple Cider Mimosa: For a bubbly touch, this drink echoes the apple theme, ensuring your gathering feels festive.
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Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Adding a sweet baked good elevates your autumn meal, tying in seasonal flavors that your guests will adore.
Elevate your next gathering with these delicious pairings, each designed to balance the creamy, fruity notes of your Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad.
Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the salad?
Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of crisp and sweet apples like Gala, Jazz, or Golden Delicious. These varieties provide a great balance of flavor and texture, but feel free to substitute with other sweet apples that you prefer. Just avoid mushy apples for the best results!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the apples may brown slightly over time. If you notice them changing color, that’s perfectly normal—just give everything a gentle stir before serving again!
Can I freeze the Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the apples and dressing can change after thawing. The apples may become mushy, compromising that delightful creamy consistency you love. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience!
What should I do if my apples start to brown?
To prevent browning, soak your diced apples in a mixture of cold water and lemon juice right after cutting them. Let them sit for about 5 minutes, then drain thoroughly. This little trick keeps them vibrant and fresh-looking for your Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this recipe. For a healthier option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and substituting the light brown sugar with coconut sugar. Just ensure that your nuts and dried fruits are allergy-friendly, as walnuts and cranberries can provoke allergies in some people.
Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad for Cozy Fall Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, beat Neufchatel cheese until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Gradually add brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Fold in sour cream and vanilla extract. Chill the dressing while preparing apples.
- In a medium bowl, mix cold water with lemon juice. Dice apples into bite-sized cubes and soak in the mixture for about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large serving bowl, combine soaked apples with ¾ cup of chilled dressing, walnuts, and cranberries. Toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle remaining walnuts and cranberries on top before serving. Keep chilled and enjoy within an hour.
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