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It was always the highlight of our winter holidays. Not the presents, not the decorations, but my Aunt Carol’s winter fruit salad. The bright colors against the stark white snow outside made it feel like a celebration in a bowl.

Aunt Carol always insisted on using the freshest seasonal fruits, and that’s what made it so special. I can still remember the sweet, tart smell of clementines filling her cozy kitchen, a scent that instantly brings back memories of laughter and family. I especially cherish those memories now, because I learned to bake the most delicious homemade cinnamon rock candy to enjoy with this fruit salad, and it reminds me of her every time.

Now, I carry on the tradition, making my own version of this beloved winter fruit salad with cinnamon vanilla dressing for my family each year. It’s a little piece of home, no matter where we are.

Why you’ll love this Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing

This winter fruit salad is incredibly refreshing and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect pick-me-up during the colder months.
The creamy cinnamon vanilla dressing adds a touch of warmth and spice that complements the sweetness of the fruit perfectly.
It’s a healthy and guilt-free dessert option or a vibrant addition to your brunch spread.
The Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing is quick and easy to make, requiring only 20 minutes of prep time.
You can easily customize this winter fruit salad with your favorite seasonal fruits and nuts.
The combination of textures, from the crisp apples and pears to the juicy grapes and pomegranate arils, makes every bite a delight.

Ingredients

2 cups cubed Honeycrisp apples
2 cups cubed pears (Bosc or Anjou)
1 cup clementine segments
1 cup pomegranate arils
1 cup red grapes, halved
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Dressing:

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt

Directions

Step 1

Winter fruit salad makes every moment feel uplifting. Prepare the fruit: Wash, peel (if desired), and chop the apples and pears into bite-sized cubes. Segment the clementines and halve the red grapes. Measure out the pomegranate arils and dried cranberries.

Step 2

Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice levels as needed.

Step 3

Combine: In a large bowl, gently toss together the prepared apples, pears, clementine segments, pomegranate arils, red grapes, and dried cranberries. Add the optional nuts, if using.

Step 4

Dress the salad: Pour the cinnamon vanilla dressing over the fruit salad and gently toss to coat evenly. Be careful not to over-dress the salad, as this can make it soggy. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Variations, pairings, and serving ideas

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fruits based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Other great additions include kiwi, mandarin oranges, or even some chopped persimmon for a unique twist.

For a vegan version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative such as coconut or almond yogurt. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

If you’re looking for a little extra crunch, add some toasted coconut flakes or sunflower seeds to the salad. These will add a lovely texture contrast to the soft fruits.

Pairings

This winter fruit salad with cinnamon vanilla dressing makes a wonderful side dish to a savory brunch. It pairs perfectly with fluffy scrambled eggs or a baked vegetable frittata.

For a light lunch, serve the fruit salad alongside a grilled chicken or turkey breast salad sandwich on whole-wheat bread. The sweetness of the fruit complements the savory flavors nicely.

This vibrant salad also makes a beautiful and refreshing dessert after a hearty winter meal. It cuts through the richness of heavier dishes and cleanses the palate.

Serving ideas

For a festive presentation, serve the winter fruit salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the beautiful colors of the fruit. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few extra pomegranate arils.

Individual servings can be arranged in elegant parfait glasses or small bowls for a more formal occasion. A dollop of whipped cream (or whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option) adds an extra touch of luxury.

Consider adding a sprig of fresh mint or rosemary to each serving for a pop of color and a subtle herbal aroma. This is a particularly nice touch during the holiday season.

Storage and make-ahead tips

Storage

Store leftover winter fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fruit may release some juices over time, so it’s best to consume it as soon as possible.

If you find that the salad has become too watery, you can drain off the excess liquid before serving. You can also add a few extra pieces of fresh fruit to freshen it up.

Freezing this fruit salad is not recommended, as the fruit will become mushy and lose its texture when thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh for the best quality.

Make-ahead

To save time, you can prepare the fruit ahead of time and store it in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Wait to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the fruit from becoming soggy.

The cinnamon vanilla dressing can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good whisk before using to ensure it’s smooth and creamy.

If you’re making the salad for a potluck or gathering, consider bringing the fruit and dressing separately and combining them just before serving. This will ensure that the salad stays fresh and vibrant.

Common mistakes when making Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing

Over-dressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the fruit soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed, tossing gently to coat.
Using overripe fruit: Overripe fruit will be too soft and mushy. Choose fruit that is firm and ripe, but not overly so.
Skipping the chilling time: Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together. Don’t skip this step for the best taste!
Forgetting the lemon juice: A squeeze of lemon juice prevents the apples and pears from browning if not serving immediately.
Not adjusting the sweetness: Taste the dressing and adjust the amount of honey to your liking.

Final notes

This Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors and a reminder of the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fruit combinations and add your own personal touch. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process!

So, gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and get ready to create a delicious and beautiful winter fruit salad that will brighten up any day.

Delicious Winter Fruit Salad With Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing

Why you’ll love this Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

Directions

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Variations, pairings, and serving ideas

Variations

Pairings

Serving ideas

Storage and make-ahead tips

Storage

Make-ahead

Common mistakes when making Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing

Final notes

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Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing

Ingredients

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Notes

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