Fall Fruit Salad is a satisfying mix of crisp apples, juicy grapes, sweet clementines, blackberries, and toasted pecans tossed in a maple-cinnamon citrus dressing.
Author’s Notes
The Magic of Three Ingredients!
I don’t know why it took me THIS long to share a fall fruit salad when I already have a few summer favorites and my go-to winter fruit salad. But I promise this one was worth the wait because it just might be a reliable fruit salad ever.
Maybe it is because fall produce is the best, but I really think the magic comes from the dressing. It is only three ingredients, and somehow it turns a simple bowl of fruit into something that feels like dessert.
If you have fall parties, family dinners, or even a bridal or baby shower coming up, THIS is the side dish you need to bring!
Fall Fruit Salad Ingredients
| Ingredient | Helpful Tip |
|---|---|
| Grapes & Blackberries | Choose ripe grapes that are firm and plump, and pick blackberries that are deep in color and not too soft. |
| Apples | Use a crisp and sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp. |
| Clementines | Segment or slice thinly and use both zest and juice in the dressing. |
| Pecans | Toast pecans in a dry skillet until fragrant, or grab pre-toasted ones for great flavor with no extra work. |
| Pure Maple Syrup & Cinnamon | Whisk with citrus juice for a simple dressing that ties everything together beautifully! |
chelsea’s recipe tips
Fall Fruit Salad Tips
- Keep fruit dry: Pat grapes, blackberries, and apples dry with a paper towel so the salad doesn’t get watery.
- Chill ahead: Refrigerate the fruit before assembling for a more refreshing salad.
- Add dressing last: Toss the fruit with dressing just before serving.
- Slice evenly: Cut fruit into similar-sized pieces so every bite feels balanced.
- Mix gently: Toss lightly so the fruit stays whole and unbruised.
- Sweetness check: Taste the fruit and adjust the maple syrup if needed.
More Fall Favorites:
Salads
Fall Salad
Snacks
Fall Muddy Buddies
Side Dishes
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Desserts
Caramel Apple BarStorage
This Fall Fruit Salad is best enjoyed the same day it’s made. Leftovers don’t keep well, but you can blend them into a smoothie for an straightforward way to use them up.
Fall Fruit Salad Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast or Brunch: Pair with waffles, pancakes, or a quiche.
- Lunch Spread: Serve alongside chicken salad sandwiches or a simple chicken soup.
- Dinner Side: Brighten up lasagna, Shepherd’s pie, or turkey.
- Party Table: Add to a spread with cheese, crackers, and other small bites.
- Sweet Finish: Serve as a light dessert with yogurt and granola for toppings.
Variations
- Swap the fruit: Use pears instead of apples, or add some kiwis.
- Change the nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or candied pecans all work well.
- Add a finish: Sprinkle in pomegranate arils or dried cranberries.
- Make it creamy: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt orwhipped cream.
