When winter rolls around, it’s the perfect time to enjoy fruits at their peak freshness, and nothing celebrates the season quite like a vibrant Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing. This salad combines juicy mandarin oranges, crisp apples, and ruby-red pomegranate arils, all enveloped in a warming cinnamon-vanilla syrup. It’s a dish that’s both festive and refreshing, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and aromatic flavors.
I first tried this salad during a chilly December brunch, and the combination of citrus, apples, and pomegranate with a cinnamon-vanilla touch instantly became a holiday favorite. It’s ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or a light, cheerful dessert after dinner. The best part? It’s simple to make, requires minimal prep, and its natural flavors shine beautifully without heavy cream or artificial sweeteners. With each bite, you’ll taste the crispness of the fruit paired with the delicate warmth of cinnamon and the subtle floral notes of vanilla—a truly comforting yet refreshing winter dish.
Recipe Overview
This Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing features a medley of seasonal fruits tossed in a fragrant, lightly sweetened dressing made from cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar syrup. The salad is colorful, naturally sweet, and perfectly spiced—ideal as a festive side dish, brunch addition, or healthy dessert during the colder months.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s how to bring this beautiful winter salad to life:
Ingredients
- 10 Cuties mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
- 4 large Fuji apples, cored and diced
- 2 pomegranates, arils removed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing
In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, and the scraped vanilla bean seeds. Stir to dissolve the sugar and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it simmers, remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.
Tip: For extra depth, you can let the cinnamon sticks steep in the syrup for 15–20 minutes after turning off the heat.
2. Prepare the Fruit
While the syrup cools, peel and segment the mandarin oranges. Core and dice the Fuji apples, and remove the seeds from the pomegranates. Combine all the fruit in a large mixing bowl.
Tip: Choose apples that are firm and crisp so they hold their texture after being tossed in the syrup.
3. Combine Dressing and Fruit
Once the cinnamon-vanilla syrup has cooled, pour it over the fruit in the bowl. Toss gently to ensure every piece is lightly coated with the fragrant dressing.
4. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the salad for at least 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, toss gently one more time to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled for maximum freshness and flavor impact.
Tip: Garnish with a few pomegranate seeds or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive presentation.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Fruit Substitutions
- Replace mandarins with clementines or blood oranges for a different citrus profile.
- Swap Fuji apples with Honeycrisp or Gala for a slightly sweeter or tarter bite.
- Add pears or kiwi for extra variety and texture.
2. Dressing Adjustments
- For a lighter version, reduce the sugar to ¾ cup or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
- Add a splash of orange juice or brandy for extra aromatic depth.
3. Texture Enhancements
- Toasted walnuts or pecans can add crunch.
- A dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt on the side turns this salad into a more indulgent dessert.
4. Make Ahead Tips
- Prepare the syrup and fruit separately up to a day in advance.
- Toss them together just before serving to maintain crispness.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- The fruit may release some juice, creating a naturally sweetened syrup.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a festive side dish during holiday meals.
- Pair with baked goods, pancakes, or waffles for a sweet breakfast twist.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick, elegant dessert.
The Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing is a celebration of seasonal flavors, combining sweet citrus, crisp apples, and tart pomegranate with a warm, aromatic dressing. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it perfect for holiday gatherings, winter brunches, or a healthy, light dessert. With minimal effort, this salad elevates fresh fruit into a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s a recipe that delights the senses and adds a touch of festive cheer to any table.
FAQs
1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, pears, kiwi, or even grapes can be added for variety.
2. How long can the salad be stored?
Up to 2 days in the refrigerator, though the fruit is freshest on the first day.
3. Can I make the dressing in advance?
Absolutely. Make the cinnamon-vanilla syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
4. Can I use powdered cinnamon instead of sticks?
Yes, but cinnamon sticks infuse a more subtle, natural flavor. If using powder, start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
5. Is this salad suitable for kids?
Yes! It’s naturally sweet and visually appealing, making it perfect for family-friendly meals.
Bright and festive Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing. Juicy mandarins, crisp apples, and pomegranate tossed in a fragrant cinnamon-vanilla syrup—ready in minutes!
