Cinnamon Honey Apple Grape Salad

Cinnamon Honey Apple Grape Salad brings together crisp apples, juicy red grapes, and toasted pecans in a simple yet elegant way. From the very first bite, this fresh fruit salad feels comforting, balanced, and lightly indulgent. While it looks refined, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for both everyday meals and special gatherings.

Traditionally, fruit salads leaned heavily on citrus or sugar. However, warm spices like cinnamon have long been used to enhance natural sweetness instead. As a result, this salad highlights the fruit rather than masking it. Meanwhile, the honey drizzle gently coats every bite, creating a glossy finish without overpowering the flavors.

Because apples and grapes are harvested together in early fall, they naturally complement each other. Additionally, toasted pecans add richness and crunch, which keeps the texture exciting. Whether served as a side dish, a light dessert, or part of a brunch spread, this recipe fits beautifully. Above all, it proves that simple ingredients, when treated thoughtfully, can feel truly special.

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

2 cups red seedless grapes
2 cups crisp apples, diced
½ cup pecan halves
2 Tbsp honey
1 Tbsp olive oil
¾ tsp ground cinnamon
⅛ tsp fine sea salt

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the fruit:
First, rinse the grapes thoroughly and pat them dry. Meanwhile, dice the apples into bite-size cubes, keeping the skin on for color and texture. Transfer all fruit to a large serving bowl.

2. Toast the pecans:
Next, place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir often for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly toasted. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

3. Make the cinnamon honey drizzle:
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well blended.

4. Combine and finish:
Then, pour the drizzle over the fruit. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Finally, sprinkle toasted pecans over the top and serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Choose crisp apples:
  For best texture, firm apples like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady hold their shape better, especially after tossing, and therefore keep the salad fresh longer.
• Toast for deeper flavor:
  Although optional, toasting pecans enhances their natural oils. As a result, the salad tastes richer without needing extra sweeteners.
• Dress just before serving:
  While the salad can be prepped ahead, adding the honey drizzle right before serving keeps the fruit bright, glossy, and perfectly textured.