Description
This refreshing and creamy Grape Salad is a perfect no-bake dessert or side dish featuring a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and sweet grapes. Chilled to perfection and topped with crunchy pecans and brown sugar, it makes a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup sour cream (set out for 30 minutes)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (can use up to ½ cup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit and Toppings
- 2 pounds seedless green grapes (rinsed and patted dry)
- 2 pounds seedless red grapes (rinsed and patted dry)
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup chopped pecans (divided)
Instructions
- Prepare the creamy base: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a uniform texture.
- Add sweetness and flavor: Incorporate the granulated sugar and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture and beat again until fully blended and smooth.
- Combine grapes and nuts: Gently fold in the seedless green and red grapes along with half of the chopped pecans, making sure all grapes are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl securely with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour, though chilling overnight yields the best flavor and texture.
- Finish and serve: Just before serving, top the salad with a few halved grapes, sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans, and a dusting of light brown sugar for a delightful crunch and sweetness. Serve chilled.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, firm grapes to avoid excess moisture.
- Chilling overnight enhances the flavors and texture of the salad.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds according to preference.
- Adjust granulated sugar amount based on desired sweetness.
- This salad can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated until serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
