Description
A deliciously creamy grape salad that combines fresh grapes with a smooth cream cheese and sour cream dressing, topped with a crunchy pecan and brown sugar mixture. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or dessert, this no-cook recipe is quick to prepare and best served chilled.
Ingredients
Scale
Grapes
- 2 pounds grapes (green, red or a mix; cold from fridge recommended)
Dressing
- 4 oz cream cheese (1/2 block of Philly, softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (more or less to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons chopped pecans (or walnuts)
Instructions
- Prep grapes: If not already done, wash the grapes thoroughly and pat them dry with a towel. For younger children under 5 years old or if the grapes are particularly large, cut them in half or quarters to ensure they are easy and safe to eat.
- Make dressing: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold the prepared grapes into the dressing, ensuring they are evenly coated. You may spread the mixture into a serving dish if you prefer a layered presentation.
- Finish and chill: In a small separate bowl, combine the light brown sugar and chopped pecans or walnuts. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the grape salad. Loosely cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and chill it in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and for the salad to become nicely chilled. Serve cold for best taste.
Notes
- Use cold grapes straight from the fridge for the freshest flavor and best texture.
- If using for kids under 5, always cut large grapes to prevent choking hazards.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-rich dressing.
- Feel free to swap pecans with walnuts or other nuts based on preference or allergies.
- The salad can be prepared a day ahead but add the nut topping just before serving to maintain crunchiness.
