I still remember the first time I tried grape salad at a family potluck.
What looked like a simple fruit salad turned out to be something completely different—and completely addictive.
This isn’t your typical fruit salad. Grape salad combines the natural sweetness of fresh grapes with a rich, creamy dressing that transforms ordinary fruit into something special.
The contrast between the juicy grapes and the smooth cream cheese base creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The best part?
It takes just minutes to throw together, but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or when you want to bring something that’s guaranteed to disappear from the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The creamy dressing made with cream cheese and sour cream creates a luscious coating that clings to every grape.
Brown sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming, while vanilla extract brings depth to the flavor profile.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can make it ahead of time (it actually gets better after sitting in the fridge), and it works equally well as a side dish or dessert.
Kids love it, adults can’t stop eating it, and it’s always the first thing to go at parties.
The recipe is also foolproof. No cooking required, no complicated techniques – just mix, chill, and serve!
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 2 pounds red grapes, washed and stems removed
- 2 pounds green grapes, washed and stems removed
For the dressing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
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Instructions
- Prepare the grapes: Wash both varieties of grapes thoroughly and remove all stems. Pat dry with paper towels and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until completely combined and creamy.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the grapes and gently fold together until all grapes are evenly coated.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.
- Chill: Cover the grape salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the pecan and brown sugar mixture over the top of the salad.
Ideas if You Want to Customize It
- Tropical twist: Add diced pineapple and shredded coconut
- Berry addition: Mix in fresh strawberries or blueberries
- Nut alternatives: Try chopped walnuts or toasted almonds instead of pecans
- Lighter version: Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the sour cream
This grape salad is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable.
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Best Grape Salad
This creamy grape salad combines fresh red and green grapes with a rich cream cheese dressing and crunchy pecan topping. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you want a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 2 pounds red grapes, washed and stems removed
- 2 pounds green grapes, washed and stems removed
For the dressing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the grapes: Wash both varieties of grapes thoroughly and remove all stems. Pat dry with paper towels and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until completely combined and creamy.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the grapes and gently fold together until all grapes are evenly coated.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.
- Chill: Cover the grape salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the pecan and brown sugar mixture over the top of the salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
