This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Creamy Grape Salad is a classic Midwestern recipe that everyone loves for a side dish. Bursting with juicy fresh grapes in a sweet and tangy cream cheese dressing that’s sprinkled with brown sugar and pecans. It’s makes the perfect easy side for a potluck, summer picnic or party!
I first made grape salad a few years ago after there was a big rage all over social media about it. As in, people were sort of losing their minds about it – a salad with cream cheese and grapes?
Like other dessert salads, it’s apparently a popular side dish here in the Midwest but at the time I had missed the boat because I had never tried it despite growing up in Minnesota. I thought I had tried all of our famous potluck dishes, but I guess I was wrong! Grape salad was a new one for me.
I’ve had my fair share of cookie salad and snicker salad, but I’d never heard about grape salad. So, of course, I had to make it myself to see what all the fuss was about!
What I love best about this recipe is how EASY it is. You can literally prepare it in just a few minutes, pop it in the fridge and then pull it out when you’re ready to serve it.
I think it’s more of a cross between fruit salad and a dessert salad. Although there are variations it’s usually a combination of fresh grapes, nuts and a creamy sweet dressing.
Despite being sweet, these types of salads are usually served as side dishes at potlucks and – you know what? – it’s really, really good! Creamy, cold and sweet and I just love the juicy grapes. Since making it a few years ago, it’s been one of my favorite potluck dishes – everyone always asks me for the recipe!
What is Grape Salad Made of?
Whole Grapes – A mixture of red and green seedless grapes. You could use all of one kind, but it’s fun to have both for color.
Cream Cheese – The base of the dressing the grapes are tossed in.
Sour Cream – Make sure the cream cheese is softened. It makes it so much easier to combine with the other ingredients. You could also use plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Vanilla Extract – For flavoring in the salad dressing.
Sugars – We use both white and brown sugars in the dressings to add depth and flavor.
Pecans – Add the perfect crunch in the salad. Walnuts could also be used if you don’t have pecans or prefer walnuts.
Pro Tip!
Use full fat cream cheese and sour cream to prevent the salad dressing from getting watery.
How do you Make Grape Salad
First, wash and dry your grapes and make sure all of the stems are removed.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla together until smooth.
Add the grapes and toss to coat them evenly in the cream cheese mixture.
At this point, cover the bowl and chill the salad at least one hour or until you’re ready to serve it.
Just before serving, sprinkle the brown sugar and pecans over the top.
Can I Make Grape Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, in fact, it needs to chill at least a hour in the refrigerator before you serve it. You can make it up to one day in advance, just don’t add the nuts and brown sugar until you’re ready to serve it. Otherwise the nuts won’t be crunchy.
If you’re in a hurry, you can let it chill for at least one hour before serving – it’s better when it’s really cold!
How Long does Grape Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
We recommend you make this a day before serving it. This salad taste best when it’s chilled.
Add the pecans and brown sugar on top right before serving.
Can I cut the grapes in half?
Yes! This is great if you having young children that will be eating this salad. It will prevent the grapes from being a choking hazard and it’s easier for everyone to eat!
Pro Tips!
We recommend making sure the grapes are dry after rinsing them off so the dressing doesn’t get watery. Simply wash off grapes in a colander, then spread out on paper towels and blot of excess water.
There is about 2 1/2 c. in a pound of grapes.
If you have young kids feel free to cut the grapes in half so it’s safer for them to eat.
Instead of chopped pecans you can substitute another nut like walnuts or you can even use chopped candy bars like Butterfingers or Snickers!
More Potluck Recipes
With summer just around the corner, this is a great recipe to add to the list! It’s easy to make and perfect for warm weather – I think you’re going to love it!
I love a good potluck and these are some other recipes I love to make and share with family and friends!
Everyone always goes crazy for deviled eggs – they’re a classic!
Broccoli salad is a perfect summer salad that’s quick and easy – you only need 15 minutes to make it!
Traditional 7-layer salad is always a favorite, too! With layers of chopped lettuce, peas, celery, onions, bacon, cheese, and dressing it always disappears fast!
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, yogurt, white sugar and vanilla until blended. Add grapes and toss to coat.
Transfer to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Sprinkle with brown sugar blend and pecans just before serving.
Tips
We recommend using the full fat versions of cream cheese and sour cream. If you use low-fat options the dressing isn’t as creamy and can get watery.
We recommend making sure the grapes are dry after rinsing them off so the dressing doesn’t get watery. Simply wash off grapes in a colander, then spread out on paper towels and blot of excess water.
There is about 2 1/2 c. in a pound of grapes.
If you have young kids feel free to cut the grapes in half so it’s safer for them to eat.
Instead of chopped pecans you can substitute another nut like walnuts or you can even use chopped candy bars like Butterfingers or Snickers!
We are not dietitians and recommend you seek a nutritionist for exact nutritional information. The information in the nutrition box is calculated through a program and there is room for error.
If you need an accurate count, I recommend running the ingredients through your favorite nutrition calculator.
I'm here to help you win in the kitchen again! Life is Busy, Life is Crazy, but that doesn't mean you can't make your family dinner! Julie's goal is to provide you with easy, family, friendly recipes that use pantry staples. Dinnertime will be stress free again!
Deb says
Looks great but I’m allergic to dairy.