Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans

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🍇 Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans

Description

This creamy, sweet, and crunchy grape salad is a classic side dish that feels like dessert. Fresh seedless grapes are tossed in a smooth cream cheese and sour cream mixture, topped with brown sugar and pecans for a caramelized crunch. It’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, holiday gatherings, or as a refreshing snack.

Ingredients for Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans

  • 4 cups seedless green grapes

  • 4 cups seedless red grapes

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark, for topping)

  • 1 cup pecans, chopped (toasted for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Grapes – Wash grapes thoroughly and pat dry with a towel. Leave them whole or slice in half if preferred.

  2. Make Cream Base – In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

  3. Combine – Gently fold the grapes into the cream mixture until evenly coated.

  4. Top – Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the top. Add chopped pecans for crunch.

  5. Chill & Serve – Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • Use a mix of red and green grapes for color and sweetness balance.

  • Toast pecans lightly in a dry skillet for a deeper nutty flavor.

  • Best served chilled. Can be made a few hours ahead.

Tips

  • For a lighter version: replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and reduce sugar slightly.

  • To prevent watery salad, ensure grapes are completely dry before mixing.

  • Can also top with granola instead of pecans for a kid-friendly crunch.

  • If making in advance, add the brown sugar and pecans just before serving to keep the topping crunchy.

Servings

  • Serves: 8–10 people

  • Serving Size: ~1 cup

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 280

  • Protein: 4g

  • Carbohydrates: 34g

  • Sugars: 28g

  • Fat: 15g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sodium: 60mg

Health Benefits

  • Grapes: High in antioxidants (resveratrol), vitamin C, and hydration.

  • Pecans: Provide healthy fats, fiber, and protein.

  • Greek Yogurt Option: Adds probiotics and protein for gut health.

  • A more wholesome alternative to traditional desserts, yet still indulgent.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this a day ahead?
A: Yes, but add the brown sugar and pecans right before serving to maintain texture.

Q: Can I freeze grape salad?
A: No, freezing will change the texture of grapes and cream base.

Q: Can I use only one type of grape?
A: Absolutely—either red or green grapes work, but a mix adds flavor and color variety.

Q: What can I use instead of pecans?
A: Walnuts, almonds, or granola make great substitutes.

Q: Is this served as a dessert or side dish?
A: Traditionally, it’s a sweet side dish at potlucks, but it works as a light dessert too.

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