Grape Salad: A Creamy, Crunchy, Sweet Surprise

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Grape Salad is the kind of dish that turns a simple gathering into something special. With its juicy, vibrant grapes coated in a luscious cream cheese and sour cream dressing, this salad brings a burst of color and flavor to the table. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy—with just a touch of crunch from toasted pecans or brown sugar topping. Whether you’re preparing for a summer picnic, a brunch spread, or a quick side for dinner, this chilled fruit salad delivers refreshing satisfaction in every spoonful.

This delightful dish isn’t just visually striking with its mix of red, green, and golden grapes—it’s also an irresistible crowd-pleaser. The creamy coating hugs each grape, while a sprinkle of brown sugar and crunchy nuts adds just enough texture to keep things exciting. Even better, it’s super easy to whip up in minutes and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for both busy weekdays and festive holidays.

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Ingredients for this Grape Salad

• 4 cups red seedless grapes
• 4 cups green seedless grapes
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)

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Step 1: Prepare the Grapes

Start by washing the red and green seedless grapes thoroughly. Pat them completely dry using a kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the creamy mixture stick better to the grapes and prevents the salad from becoming watery.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Beat or stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Add in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until fully incorporated. The result should be a sweet, velvety dressing that’s rich but not overly heavy.

Step 3: Mix the Grapes In

Gently fold the dry grapes into the cream mixture. Make sure each grape gets coated evenly. Use a spatula or large spoon to stir slowly—this helps prevent the grapes from getting bruised or crushed.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping

Transfer the coated grape salad into a serving bowl. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly across the top for a caramel-like finish. If you’re adding chopped pecans or walnuts, scatter them over the brown sugar for an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld and allows the dressing to firm up slightly. Serve it cold for the most refreshing experience—perfect for warm days or light meals.

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Storage Instructions

Grape Salad stores beautifully, making it a go-to dish for prepping ahead. Simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the salad into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Avoid freezing, as the texture of the grapes and the creamy dressing can become watery and unpleasant once thawed. If you’re planning to make it ahead for a gathering, wait to add the brown sugar and nut topping until just before serving to maintain their crunch.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per 1 cup serving – approximately)

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Sugar: 24g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 55mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly based on the exact ingredients and proportions used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use only one type of grape?

Absolutely! Red or green grapes alone will work just fine. Using both adds color and contrast, but it’s not essential.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, grape salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Just add the topping right before serving to keep it crisp.

3. What’s a good substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great alternative. It offers a similar tangy flavor with extra protein and less fat.

4. Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut yogurt or a plant-based sour cream for a lactose-free version.

5. Can I use frozen grapes?

It’s not recommended. Frozen grapes release too much moisture once thawed, which waters down the creamy dressing.

6. How can I make it sweeter?

Increase the granulated sugar to 1/2 cup, or drizzle honey into the mix. Taste and adjust before adding the grapes.

7. What can I use instead of pecans?

Walnuts, almonds, or even crushed pretzels add a fun twist. You can also omit nuts entirely if you prefer.

8. Can kids help with this recipe?

Definitely! Kids can help wash the grapes, mix the creamy base, and sprinkle on the toppings. It’s a fun and easy dish for little hands.

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