Celebrate the flavors of the season with this Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad Recipe — a colorful medley of crisp apples, juicy pears, tart cranberries, sweet grapes, and crunchy pecans tossed in a light maple-cinnamon dressing. Bursting with fall freshness, this healthy fruit salad is the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, brunches, or cozy family dinners. It’s simple, naturally sweet, and absolutely beautiful on any holiday table.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is for anyone who loves seasonal, wholesome dishes that are as stunning as they are delicious. Perfect for health-conscious cooks, holiday hosts, and fruit lovers looking for a fresh, fall-inspired dessert or side dish that feels special yet effortless.
Why You’ll Love It
- Packed with fresh fall fruits and natural sweetness.
- Ready in minutes — no cooking required.
- Perfect balance of crisp, juicy, and crunchy textures.
- Gorgeous presentation for any holiday meal or brunch.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), chopped
- 2 pears (Bartlett or Bosc), chopped
- 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup pomegranate arils (optional but festive)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 banana, sliced (optional — add right before serving)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the fruit
- Wash, peel (if desired), and chop all fruit into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large bowl.
- Make the dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Combine everything
- Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Add the crunch
- Sprinkle with nuts and dried cranberries. Toss again lightly.
- Chill & serve
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor. Garnish with extra pecans or a drizzle of honey if desired.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board & knife
- Serving spoon
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Add bananas just before serving to keep them from browning.
- Great for meal prep — the flavors blend beautifully overnight.
Variations
🍊 Add citrus – orange slices or mandarin segments for brightness.
🍯 Make it creamy – mix 2 tbsp vanilla yogurt with the dressing.
🥭 Go tropical – add pineapple or mango for a sweet twist.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?
Yes — mix everything except bananas and nuts ahead, then add them right before serving.
Q: Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Absolutely — honey works beautifully for a slightly richer sweetness.
Q: Is it vegan-friendly?
Yes! Just make sure your sweetener (maple syrup or agave) is vegan-certified.
Conclusion
This Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad is fresh, festive, and full of fall flavor — a colorful celebration of the season’s best fruits. Light, healthy, and naturally sweetened, it’s the perfect holiday side dish or refreshing dessert that brings beauty and balance to your table.
Enjoy !!
