Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes just minutes to prepare and uses a few simple ingredients to create a flavor-packed dish. The combination of cream cheese and sour cream gives it a rich, tangy base, while the grapes add natural sweetness and juiciness. The brown sugar and pecans sprinkled on top add the perfect finishing touch of texture and flavor.
Ingredients
-
8 oz package cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup sour cream
-
⅓ cup granulated sugar
-
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
-
2 lbs seedless green grapes
-
2 lbs seedless red grapes
-
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
-
3 tablespoons chopped pecans
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
-
Fold in the green and red grapes until they are evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
-
Transfer the salad to a serving dish, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
-
Just before serving, sprinkle the brown sugar and chopped pecans evenly over the top.
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 24
-
Prep Time: 20 minutes
-
Chilling Time: 2 hours
-
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
-
Nut-free: Omit pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative.
-
Fruit mix: Add sliced apples, pineapple chunks, or blueberries for a fruit salad variation.
-
Healthier twist: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or use light sour cream.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best served fresh and chilled. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the grapes will change.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it the day before, but add the brown sugar and pecans right before serving to keep them crisp.
Can I use only one type of grape?
Absolutely! You can use just red or green grapes if that’s what you have.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative and will make the dish a bit tangier and healthier.
Is it necessary to peel or cut the grapes?
No, but if you’re serving to young children, cutting the grapes is recommended for safety.
Can I toast the pecans?
Yes, toasting enhances their flavor and adds a delicious crunch.
How sweet is this salad?
It’s sweet but balanced. You can adjust the sugar to suit your preference.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, use your favorite sugar alternative, but adjust amounts based on sweetness level.
Can this be a dessert?
Yes! It works great as a light dessert thanks to its creamy and sweet profile.
What else can I top it with?
Try graham cracker crumbs, mini marshmallows, or granola for added texture.
Is it suitable for potlucks?
Absolutely! It’s a favorite at picnics and gatherings because it’s easy, tasty, and serves a crowd.
Conclusion
Creamy Grape Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for warm weather get-togethers or any time you want a sweet and tangy treat. With its smooth cream cheese base, juicy grapes, and crunchy topping, it’s sure to be a hit on any table.
Creamy Grape Salad
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 24
- Category: Side Dish, Dessert, Summer Recipes, Potluck
- Method: No-bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Grape Salad is a refreshing, crowd-pleasing side dish or dessert made with juicy grapes, a luscious cream cheese and sour cream dressing, and a sweet, crunchy topping of brown sugar and pecans. Quick to prepare and perfect for potlucks, picnics, or summer BBQs, it’s a simple recipe that always impresses!
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
⅓ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 lbs seedless green grapes
2 lbs seedless red grapes
3 tbsp light brown sugar
3 tbsp chopped pecans
Instructions
-
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
-
Fold in the grapes until evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
-
Transfer to a serving dish, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and allow flavors to meld.
-
Just before serving, sprinkle brown sugar and chopped pecans on top for a sweet, crunchy finish.
Notes
Variations:
Nut-Free: Omit pecans or swap for sunflower seeds or granola.
Fruit Mix: Add apples, pineapple, or blueberries for variety.
Light Version: Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese or sour cream for a healthier twist.
Storage/Reheating:
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Not recommended—grapes lose texture when frozen and thawed.
