Fresh Fall Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing

Published on: December 4, 2025

Fresh Fall Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing served in a bowl

Dive into the vibrant world of autumn with this Fresh Fall Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing. The dazzling array of seasonal fruits mixed with the warmth of cinnamon and the zest of orange creates a dish that’s not just a feast for your eyes but a celebration for your taste buds. The bright colors and inviting aromas make this salad a delightful addition to your dining table. Specially crafted to highlight the season’s bounty, this recipe is easy to assemble, sustainable, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this Fresh Fall Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing for its versatility and ease. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or looking for a refreshing snack, this dish fits the bill perfectly. The delightful burst of flavors combined with the natural sweetness of the fruits makes it an instant favorite. Plus, it’s conveniently simple to whip together, making it a stress-free addition to any meal.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

This salad showcases the best of the fall harvest, featuring apples, pears, and seasonal citrus. The deep reds and greens of the apples contrast beautifully with the soft yellows of ripe pears, creating a stunning visual experience. Aromas of sweet citrus mingle with the warm spice of cinnamon, invoking the comforting essence of autumn. Sourcing these ingredients locally not only ensures peak freshness but also supports sustainable farming practices, enhancing the natural appeal of this delicious dish.

What You’ll Need

Apples (2 medium) – Crisp and sweet, choosing varieties like Honeycrisp provides a great texture.
Pears (2 medium) – Soft and juicy, ripe pears add a wonderful sweetness.
Clementines (2) – Easy to peel and segment, their bright flavor shines through.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – A warm spice that enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness.
Orange juice (1/4 cup) – Freshly squeezed for the best flavor, elevating the dressing.
Honey or maple syrup (optional, 1 tablespoon) – If additional sweetness is desired, choose according to your diet.

Substitution Ideas: For a lighter dressing, substitute honey with agave syrup. For a nut-free option, omit any nut garnishes.

How to Make This Recipe

Prepare the Fruits
Begin by washing the fruits thoroughly. Core and dice the apples and pears into bite-sized pieces to maintain crispness, while segmenting the clementines will add freshness. Set aside as their colors will brighten the dish.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed orange juice and cinnamon. The aroma of citrus and spice will fill the air, inviting you to dig in.
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the diced fruits with the cinnamon orange dressing. Ensure each piece is lightly coated without bruising the fruits, which adds charm to the salad.
Chill and Serve
Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling enhances the flavors and texture and gives a refreshing quality to each bite.
Garnish and Enjoy
Before serving, you can garnish the salad with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or coconut flakes for added crunch and visual appeal. Dive into the joy of fresh autumn flavors!

Essential Tools

Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping fruits.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine and toss the salad easily.
Whisk: For smooth and thorough mixing of the dressing.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measuring.
Refrigerator container: Store leftovers and keep them fresh.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

This Fresh Fall Fruit Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the fruits from browning, you might add a touch of lemon juice to the apples and pears before mixing. If you need to freeze any portion, it’s best to do so without the dressing, as it can alter the texture when thawed.

Perfect Pairings

This delightful salad pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes and drinks. For a refreshing drink, consider serving it with a crisp, sparkling cider or a light herbal tea. As a side, it complements roasted meats beautifully or can be a topper for yogurt or oatmeal in the morning. Visually, a bright plate juxtaposed with the vivid fruit gives an appealing contrast that enhances the dining experience.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Fruits Browning Too Quickly: To prevent browning, coat apple and pear pieces with a bit of lemon juice before mixing.
Dressing Overpowering: Adjust cinnamon levels to avoid overwhelming the fruit’s natural flavors. Start with less and add more as needed.
Fruits Becoming Mushy: Be cautious with the ripeness of your fruit; use a mix of slightly firmer and ripe pieces for ideal texture.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use Seasonal Fruits: Opt for the freshest, locally-sourced fruits for optimal flavor and nutrition.
Taste as You Go: Adjust the sweetness and acidity by tasting the dressing before combining with the fruits.
Let It Marinate: Allowing the salad to sit enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Tropical Twist: Add pineapple and kiwi for a tropical version of this salad.
Nutty Delight: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and healthy fats.
Berry Infusion: Incorporate seasonal berries like cranberries or blueberries for a burst of flavor and color.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

Vegan: Simply use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
Gluten-Free/Dairy-Free: Naturally, this recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free. Ensure no cross-contamination occurs.
Nut-Free: Omit nuts or choose seeds if allergies are a concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long can I store the salad?
A: The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days for the best freshness.

Q2: Can I use frozen fruit?
A: While fresh fruit is recommended for texture and taste, you can use frozen fruit if necessary; just ensure it’s thawed and drained well.

Q3: Is it possible to prep this salad the night before?
A: Yes, but if doing so, mix the dressing just before serving to keep the fruit crisp and fresh.

Q4: What if I don’t have cinnamon?
A: You can skip it or use a different spice like nutmeg or allspice for a unique flavor twist.

Q5: Can I add other fruits?
A: Absolutely! Seasonal fruits work best, so feel free to include whatever is available and appealing.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

With its bright flavors and vibrant colors, this Fresh Fall Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing is a must-try for your autumn gatherings. I encourage you to share your creations and tag us. Ready to explore more delightful recipes? Check out our seasonal recipes here.