Creamy Apple Fruit Salad Recipe with Perfect Cinnamon Dressing

Posted on November 22, 2025

creamy apple fruit salad - featured image

Introduction

Imagine biting into a spoonful of crisp, juicy apples coated in a velvety, cinnamon-infused dressing—it’s a burst of freshness and cozy fall flavors all at once. The first time I made this creamy apple fruit salad, it was for a family picnic. I had no idea it would become the star of the gathering! As soon as the first bowl hit the table, my cousins were sneaking extra servings, and my aunt even asked for the recipe before the day was over. You know you’re onto something special when people start offering to wash the dishes just to scrape the bowl clean.

Truth be told, I wish I had discovered this recipe years ago. It’s dangerously easy to whip up and checks all the boxes—delicious, nutritious, and visually stunning. The crunchy apples, paired with the creamy dressing and the warm spice of cinnamon, feel like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday dessert table, a potluck, or just a simple weekday treat, this salad will brighten up your spread in no time.

I’ve tested this recipe countless times (in the name of research, of course), and every time it’s been met with rave reviews. It’s become a staple in our home, especially during the fall when apples are at their peak. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one—it’s that good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need a refreshing treat in a pinch.
Simple Ingredients: No need for a complicated shopping list—everything you need is either in your pantry or at your local grocery store.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday party, or a casual brunch, this salad fits right in.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and balanced sweetness, this dish is loved by kids and adults alike.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of crisp apples and cinnamon-infused dressing is pure comfort food magic.

What sets this recipe apart is the cinnamon dressing. It’s not just a basic cream; it’s a mix of tangy, sweet, and warm flavors that elevate the fruit to a whole new level of yum. Plus, it’s versatile—add in your favorite fruits or nuts, and you’ve got yourself a customizable masterpiece. But honestly, the apples alone are show-stoppers here. One bite, and you’ll understand why this salad has become a family favorite. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re indulging while still keeping things light and fresh.

Ingredients Needed

This creamy apple fruit salad recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a medley of flavors and textures that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Here’s what you’ll need:

Apples: 4 medium-sized apples, diced (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work beautifully for their sweetness and crunch).
Greek Yogurt: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (you can use vanilla-flavored if you prefer extra sweetness).
Honey: 3 tablespoons of honey (or maple syrup as a substitute).
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (to prevent the apples from browning and add a bright flavor).
Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (the star of the dressing).
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for a warm, aromatic touch.
Raisins: ½ cup (optional but adds a lovely chewy texture).
Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: ½ cup (for a satisfying crunch).

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! You can easily swap honey for agave syrup, use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version, or skip the nuts if you’re catering to allergies. The beauty of this recipe is how forgiving and adaptable it is, so feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand.

Equipment Needed

Cutting Board: Essential for dicing the apples and chopping the nuts.
Sharp Knife: A good knife makes prepping the apples quick and easy.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one large bowl for the salad and a smaller one for the dressing.
Whisk: Perfect for blending the cinnamon dressing into a creamy consistency.
Rubber Spatula: Ideal for folding the dressing into the salad without crushing the ingredients.

If you don’t have a whisk, a fork will work in a pinch for mixing the dressing. For nuts, you can use a food processor to chop them quickly, but I prefer a knife—it gives you better control over the size of the pieces.

Preparation Method

Prep the Apples: Wash and dry 4 medium apples. Dice them into bite-sized pieces, making sure to remove the core. If you prefer a more decorative look, you can slice them thinly instead.
Add Lemon Juice: Toss the diced apples with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice in a large mixing bowl. This step not only adds a tangy flavor but also keeps the apples looking fresh and prevents browning.
Prepare the Dressing: In a smaller bowl, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 3 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Mix the Salad: Pour the cinnamon dressing over the apples and gently fold it in using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to mash the apples—you want them to stay nice and crisp.
Add Raisins and Nuts: Stir in ½ cup of raisins and ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. These add texture and a nutty depth of flavor to the salad. If you’re not a fan of raisins or nuts, feel free to skip them or substitute with dried cranberries or sunflower seeds.
Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Serve: Right before serving, give the salad a final stir. You can garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or extra chopped nuts for a beautiful presentation.

And voilà! Your creamy apple fruit salad is ready to be enjoyed. If you’re serving a crowd, consider doubling the recipe—it disappears fast!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for their sweetness and crunch. Avoid softer apples like Red Delicious—they may turn mushy.
Balance the Sweetness: Taste the dressing before mixing it with the apples. Add more honey or lemon juice to adjust the sweetness and tang to your liking.
Keep It Fresh: Toss the apples in lemon juice immediately after cutting to prevent browning. This is especially important if you’re making the salad ahead of time.
Customize the Texture: For a smoother dressing, use a blender to mix the ingredients. For a chunkier texture, stir them together by hand.
Don’t Overload: While this salad is delicious on its own, it can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence—but don’t go overboard and overpower the fresh apple flavor.

The dressing is the key to this recipe’s success, so don’t rush it. Take your time to whisk it until it’s perfectly creamy and smooth. And one last tip—if you’re planning on serving this at a party, assemble the salad no more than 2 hours in advance to keep those apples at their crunchiest.

Variations & Adaptations

Dietary-Friendly Option: Make this recipe vegan by swapping out Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt and using maple syrup instead of honey.
Seasonal Twist: In the summer, replace apples with fresh fruits like peaches or nectarines for a sunny flavor profile. In winter, add a handful of pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
Nut-Free Version: Skip the nuts entirely or substitute them with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy, allergy-friendly option.
Kid-Friendly Version: Leave out the raisins if your kids aren’t fans, or swap them with mini marshmallows for an extra sweet treat.
Extra Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the dressing for a quick energy-packed snack or post-workout treat.

One of my favorite variations is adding a handful of shredded coconut—it adds a tropical flair that’s so fun and unexpected. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This creamy apple fruit salad is best served chilled. Scoop it into individual bowls or glasses for a fancy presentation, and top each serving with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few extra nuts for added flair. Pair it with a cup of warm tea or coffee for a cozy dessert, or serve it alongside a light lunch to add a touch of sweetness to your meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the apples might release some juice over time, but a quick stir before serving will bring it back to life. Avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of the apples and dressing won’t hold up well.

Pro tip: If you’re making this ahead for an event, prepare the dressing and chop the apples separately, storing them in airtight containers. Mix them together right before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional perks of this recipe:

Calories: Approximately 150 per serving.
Protein: Thanks to the Greek yogurt, this salad packs a protein punch.
Fiber: Apples and raisins provide a good amount of dietary fiber to support digestion.
Healthy Fats: Walnuts and pecans offer heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Low in Added Sugar: Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, making it a healthier option.

With the natural sweetness of apples and honey, this salad satisfies your sweet tooth without overloading on sugar. Plus, cinnamon is known for its antioxidant properties and ability to stabilize blood sugar levels. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your health!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple, delicious, and versatile, this creamy apple fruit salad with cinnamon dressing is it. The combination of crisp apples, creamy yogurt, and warm cinnamon creates a dish that feels like pure comfort. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

So what are you waiting for? Grab some apples, mix up that dreamy cinnamon dressing, and enjoy every single bite. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use other fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! While apples are the star, you can mix in fruits like pears, grapes, or even oranges for a fun twist.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing and apples separate until just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

What’s the best way to keep the apples from browning?

Adding lemon juice to the apples right after cutting them does the trick. It keeps them looking fresh and adds a tangy flavor.

Can I use flavored yogurt?

Definitely! Vanilla or cinnamon-flavored yogurt will work beautifully and add an extra layer of flavor.

How can I make this nut-free?

Simply omit the nuts or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy alternative.

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creamy apple fruit salad recipe