Name: Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Creamy Cinnamon Dressing:; 1 pkg neufchâtel cheese; ½ cup light brown sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg; 1 pkg light sour cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; For Fruit Salad:; 4 lb apples; 2 cups water; 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 1 cup Fishers Walnuts; ¾ cup dried cranberries

This delightful creamy cinnamon apple and walnut fruit salad is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, combined with a nutty crunch. The creaminess of the neufchâtel cheese dressing complements the crispiness of the apples, while the walnuts and dried cranberries add an extra layer of texture and taste. Ideal for gatherings or a special treat, this salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Photos of Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you may need to look out for neufchâtel cheese, which is similar to cream cheese but has a slightly tangier taste. You will also need light sour cream and light brown sugar, which might not be staples in every kitchen. Make sure to check the baking or dairy sections for these items.

Ingredients For Creamy Cinnamon Apple And Walnut Fruit Salad

neufchâtel cheese: A soft, tangy cheese similar to cream cheese, providing a creamy base for the dressing.

light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth to the dressing, balancing the tanginess.

ground cinnamon: Provides warm, spice notes to the dressing.

ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of spice and complexity to the dressing.

light sour cream: Contributes to the creaminess while keeping the calorie count lower.

vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the dressing with a sweet, aromatic note.

apples: The main fruit component, providing crispness and tartness.

water: Used to prevent the apples from browning during preparation.

fresh lemon juice: Helps maintain the apple's color and adds a touch of acidity.

walnuts: Adds a nutty crunch to the salad.

dried cranberries: Provides a chewy, sweet-tart contrast to the apples.

One reader, Elfie Noyes says:

This creamy cinnamon apple and walnut fruit salad is a delightful treat! The blend of spices with the crisp apples and crunchy walnuts is perfect. The dressing is smooth and flavorful, making it a hit at our family gathering. Highly recommend for a refreshing and tasty dessert!

Elfie Noyes

Techniques Required for Making a Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad

Yes.

How to whip neufchâtel cheese mixture: Use an electric hand mixer to blend neufchâtel cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes.

How to dice apples: Cut apples into cubes while removing the core. Place the diced apples into a lemon water mixture to prevent browning, let them rest for about 1 minute, then drain on paper towels.

Enjoy a luscious serving of this apple and walnut fruit salad for your next semi-healthy dessert! It combines crisp apples, dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts in one bowl. Coated in a rich dressing that’s seasoned with warm cinnamon and nutmeg; it makes a mouthwatering after-dinner treat.

How To Make Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad

A wonderful walnut fruit salad with the sweetness of apples and the tart cranberries. It makes for a delightful dessert with creamy cinnamon dressing!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Creamy Cinnamon Dressing:

4ozcream cheese,softened
4ozsour cream
¼cupbrown sugar
1tspground cinnamon
⅛tspground nutmeg
½tspvanilla extract

For Fruit Salad:

2lbred apples,chopped, chilled
½cupwalnuts,roasted, chopped
½cupdried cranberries

Instructions

Creamy Cinnamon Dressing:

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and beat until all are evenly incorporated. Set aside.

Fruit Salad:

Transfer the apples to a bowl along with walnuts and cranberries, and the dressing. Toss to coat apples evenly.
Keep chilled until ready to serve. Serve within an hour for best results.

Nutrition

Calories: 452.29kcal
Protein: 5.19g
Cholesterol: 45.93mg

Technique Tip for Enhancing the Flavors in This Fruit Salad

When preparing the apples for the fruit salad, make sure to dice them into uniform cubes. This ensures even coating with the creamy cinnamon dressing and provides a consistent texture in every bite. Additionally, soaking the diced apples in the lemon juice and water mixture prevents them from browning, keeping your salad looking fresh and appetizing.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Fruit Salad Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Dice the apples and soak them in the lemon water mixture ahead of time to prevent browning.

Use pre-chopped nuts: Save time by purchasing pre-chopped walnuts instead of chopping them yourself.

Mix dressing ahead: Prepare the creamy cinnamon dressing a day before and store it in the fridge.

Use an electric mixer: An electric hand mixer speeds up the process of whipping the neufchâtel cheese and other ingredients.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg before starting to streamline the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad Recipe

neufchâtel cheese - Substitute with cream cheese: Cream cheese has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative.
light brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note, while also being a natural sweetener.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other spices, adding a similar warmth and complexity.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a similar warm, spicy flavor that can replace nutmeg in most recipes.
light sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, with added protein.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the overall taste.
apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative in fruit salads.
water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice adds extra apple flavor and sweetness to the salad.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and freshness, with a slightly different citrus note.
fishers walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar texture and nutty flavor, making them a good replacement for walnuts.
dried cranberries - Substitute with raisins: Raisins offer a similar chewy texture and sweetness, making them a suitable alternative.

Best Way to Present a Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad

Use a pristine white plate: A clean, white plate will make the vibrant colors of the apples, walnuts, and dried cranberries pop, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Layer the ingredients: Start by placing a generous spoonful of the creamy cinnamon dressing at the base of the plate. Arrange the diced apples on top, followed by a sprinkle of walnuts and dried cranberries.
Use a ring mold: For a professional touch, use a ring mold to shape the fruit salad into a neat, cylindrical form. This will give the dish a refined and structured appearance.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a small sprig of fresh mint or a few leaves of basil on top of the fruit salad. This not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness.
Drizzle with extra dressing: Lightly drizzle some of the creamy cinnamon dressing around the plate for an elegant finish. This will enhance the visual appeal and provide extra flavor with each bite.
Add a touch of zest: Grate a small amount of lemon zest over the top of the fruit salad to add a burst of citrus aroma and a hint of acidity to balance the sweetness.
Serve immediately: Ensure the fruit salad is served chilled and promptly to maintain its crispness and freshness. This will provide the best texture and flavor experience for the diners.

Random Fact About Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad

A random fact about this recipe is that neufchâtel cheese is a soft, slightly crumbly cheese originating from France, and it is often considered a healthier alternative to cream cheese due to its lower fat content.

Is Making This Fruit Salad Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This creamy cinnamon apple and walnut fruit salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like apples, walnuts, and dried cranberries are relatively affordable, especially when bought in bulk or on sale. The neufchâtel cheese and light sour cream add a touch of indulgence without breaking the bank. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15 USD. Considering the delightful blend of flavors and textures, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness and taste.

Is This Fruit Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The creamy cinnamon apple and walnut fruit salad recipe, while containing some healthy ingredients like apples and walnuts, also includes a significant amount of added sugars and high-fat dairy products. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthiness:

Apples are a nutritious fruit, providing fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Walnuts offer healthy fats, protein, and minerals.
Dried cranberries add some fiber and antioxidants but also contain added sugars.
The creamy cinnamon dressing, made with Neufchâtel cheese, brown sugar, and sour cream, is high in saturated fats and added sugars.

While the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients, the overall nutritional balance is skewed by the high-fat, high-sugar dressing. The combination of these ingredients may contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the dressing or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to lower the fat content and increase the protein.
Opt for reduced-fat Neufchâtel cheese or replace it with a lower-fat alternative like ricotta cheese.
Increase the proportion of apples and walnuts to the dressing to emphasize the healthier ingredients.
Add other nutrient-dense fruits like berries or citrus to boost the vitamin and antioxidant content.
Use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones to reduce the added sugar content.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Fruit Salad Recipe

This creamy cinnamon apple and walnut fruit salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The tangy neufchâtel cheese dressing, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, pairs beautifully with the crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and sweet dried cranberries. The lemon water bath for the apples ensures they stay fresh and vibrant. This dish is perfect for a light dessert or a refreshing side. However, consider toasting the walnuts for added depth and a hint of smokiness. Serve chilled for the best experience.

Enhance Your Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the velvety smoothness of butternut squash mingling with a hint of nutmeg and a dash of cinnamon. This warm, comforting soup will perfectly complement the creamy sweetness of your apple and walnut fruit salad.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Maple-Glazed Carrots: Picture tender carrots bathed in a luscious maple syrup glaze, with a sprinkle of sea salt and a touch of black pepper. Their subtle sweetness and vibrant color will create a delightful contrast to your fruit salad.

Herb-Crusted Chicken: Herb-Crusted Chicken: Envision succulent chicken breasts coated in a fragrant blend of herbs and spices, then baked to golden perfection. The savory notes of this dish will balance the sweet and creamy elements of your apple and walnut fruit salad.

Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Think of crisp green beans sautéed with aromatic garlic and finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This side dish adds a savory crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of your fruit salad.

Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice: Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice: Visualize nutty wild rice tossed with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, all brought together with a hint of orange zest. This dish offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will enhance your creamy cinnamon apple and walnut fruit salad.

Alternative Fruit Salad Recipes to Try

Caramelized Pear and Pecan Salad: Indulge in the sweet and nutty flavors of caramelized pears paired with crunchy pecans. This salad is drizzled with a light honey dressing and sprinkled with a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or a side dish.

Maple Walnut Apple Crisp: Experience the comforting warmth of baked apples topped with a crunchy walnut and oat crumble. Sweetened with a touch of maple syrup, this dessert is perfect for cozy evenings.

Cranberry Apple Slaw: A delightful twist on traditional slaw, this recipe combines crisp apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. Tossed in a tangy yogurt dressing, it's a refreshing side dish for any meal.

Spiced Apple and Walnut Muffins: These moist and flavorful muffins are packed with chunks of apples and crunchy walnuts. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, they make a perfect breakfast or snack.

Apple Walnut Chicken Salad: A savory twist on a classic, this salad combines tender chicken, crisp apples, and crunchy walnuts. Tossed in a creamy dressing, it's a satisfying lunch or light dinner option.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve With This Fruit Salad Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of Stuffed Mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. These delightful bites are filled with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan and breadcrumbs. Baked to a golden perfection, they offer a creamy and savory experience with each bite. Perfect for any gathering, these mushrooms are sure to impress your guests with their rich and satisfying taste.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with Bruschetta. This classic Italian starter features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzled with a touch of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar, each bite delivers a burst of freshness and flavor. The combination of crunchy bread and juicy toppings makes this a crowd-pleaser that's both simple and elegant.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of citrusy flavor, while a touch of olive oil ensures a juicy and tender texture. Grill the chicken to perfection, achieving a beautiful char and smoky aroma. Serve alongside a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef or turkey, rice, and seasoned vegetables. The filling is enhanced with tomato sauce and a blend of spices, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Bake the peppers until they are tender and the filling is cooked through, then top with melted cheese for an extra layer of indulgence. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a wholesome and hearty dinner.

Why trust this Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad Recipe:

This creamy cinnamon apple and walnut fruit salad recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The neufchâtel cheese and light sour cream create a rich, creamy dressing, while the cinnamon and nutmeg add a warm, comforting spice. The apples provide a crisp, fresh bite, complemented by the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of dried cranberries. This recipe has been meticulously crafted and tested to ensure a perfect balance of ingredients, making it a trustworthy choice for a delicious and satisfying dish.

Want to share your experience making this Creamy Cinnamon Apple and Walnut Fruit Salad or discuss variations and twists on the recipe? Join the conversation in our Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of neufchâtel cheese?

Yes, you can use regular cream cheese if you prefer. Neufchâtel cheese is just a lower-fat option, but the taste and texture will be quite similar.

How do I keep the apples from turning brown?

The lemon water mixture helps prevent the apples from browning. Just make sure to soak the diced apples in the mixture for about a minute before draining them.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to serve this salad within an hour of making it for the freshest taste and texture. If you need to prepare it ahead, keep the dressing and the apple mixture separate and combine them just before serving.

What type of apples work best for this salad?

You can use any type of apple you like, but I recommend a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.

Can I add other fruits or nuts to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like pears or grapes, and you can also mix in different nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch.