Name: Creamy Vanilla Grape and Apple Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups red seedless grapes, halved; 2 cups green seedless grapes, halved; 2 large apples (Gala or Honeycrisp), cored and chopped; 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt; ½ cup cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for topping); 1 tablespoon light brown sugar (for topping, optional); Pinch of salt

Hey y'all! If you're on the hunt for a fresh, irresistible dessert or a side to brighten up your table, this Creamy Vanilla Grape and Apple Salad is the ticket. It's lusciously creamy, loaded with sweet grapes and crisp apples, and has a delightful vanilla kick that makes every bite a treat. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, brunch, or whenever you’re craving something cool and fruity—this Salad is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This

Super quick to make—prep in just 15 minutes with no cooking required!
Creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite, thanks to the perfect vanilla dressing.
Ideal for making ahead; just chill until ready to serve.
Customizable with your favorite nuts, dried fruit, or protein for extra flair.
Kid-friendly, gluten-free, and refreshingly light for any season!

Ingredients

2 cups red seedless grapes, halved
2 cups green seedless grapes, halved
2 large apples (Gala or Honeycrisp), cored and chopped
1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
½ cup cream cheese, softened
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for topping)
1 tablespoon light brown sugar (for topping, optional)
Pinch of salt

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Wash and dry the red and green grapes thoroughly, then slice them in half. Core and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Set all fruit aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Vanilla Dressing

In a medium bowl, beat together the vanilla Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, sour cream, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes using a hand mixer or vigorous whisking.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the creamy dressing over the grapes and apples. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until fruit is evenly coated.

Step 4: Add Crunch & Chill

Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans and brown sugar (if using) over the top for a lovely crunch and extra sweetness.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 6 hours) before serving to let flavors meld and Salad chill.

Notes

If making ahead, toss apples with a few drops of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for greater flavor depth.
For a lighter version, use low-fat yogurt and reduced-fat cream cheese.

Variations

Berry Twist: Add in 1 cup of fresh strawberries or blueberries for a berry-licious version.
Protein Boost: Stir in ½ cup mini marshmallows or a scoop of chopped cooked chicken for a hearty salad.
Dairy-Free: Swap in coconut yogurt and vegan cream cheese for a plant-based option.

Required Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Medium bowl
Hand mixer or whisk
Spatula
Knife and cutting board

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Give the salad a gentle stir before serving again, as the dressing may thin slightly over time.
Not recommended for freezing, as texture will change drastically.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Creamy Vanilla Grape and Apple Salad chilled on a hot day as a refreshing dessert.
Pair with grilled chicken, BBQ classics, or a brunch spread with pastries and quiche.
It also makes a tasty light snack or sweet lunchbox treat for kids!

Pro Tips

Chill your serving bowl beforehand to keep your salad ultra-refreshing.
Use super ripe, juicy fruit for the best natural sweetness.
For extra decadence, drizzle a little extra honey right before serving or sprinkle additional nuts on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad a day ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just store in the refrigerator and toss again before serving for the best texture.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt gives it a richer, creamier texture—regular yogurt will be a bit thinner but still tasty!

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double check any optional toppings if you add them.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: Serves 6-8