Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans Recipe

This Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans is a refreshing and delicious dish that combines sweet grapes, a creamy dressing, and a crunchy topping of brown sugar and pecans. It's perfect as a side dish or a light dessert for any gathering.

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Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 6 cups seedless grapes (a mix of red and green for color variety)
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dressing:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grapes

1. Wash the grapes thoroughly, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Cut the grapes in half or leave them whole if you prefer, removing any stems.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. If you'd like an extra hint of sweetness, you can add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the dressing. Continue to beat until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Toss the Grapes with the Dressing

1. Add the grapes to the creamy dressing and gently toss until the grapes are well coated.
2. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for an additional layer of flavor.
3. Chill the grape salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and chopped pecans. Set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Just before serving, top the grape salad with the brown sugar and pecan topping. Stir gently to combine, or leave the topping on top for a more decorative look.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans chilled, and enjoy this creamy, sweet, and crunchy treat!

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Tips for the Best Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans

• Use a mix of grapes: A combination of red and green grapes adds color and variety to the dish, but you can use just one type if preferred.
• Chill the salad: Chilling the salad helps the flavors come together and allows the dressing to firm up.
• Make ahead: You can make this salad ahead of time, but add the brown sugar and pecan topping just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.

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Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover grape salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The grapes may release some juice as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving again.
• Freezing: This salad is best served fresh and should not be frozen due to the creamy dressing.

Enjoy your Grape Salad with Brown Sugar & Pecans – a sweet and refreshing dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering! 🍇🍯🌰