When autumn arrives, our cravings naturally shift toward warm spices, comforting flavors, and seasonal produce. While baked desserts often steal the spotlight, there’s something truly refreshing about a dish that celebrates fall fruit in its natural, vibrant form. Fall Fruit Salad with Orange Cinnamon Dressing does exactly that—bringing together crisp apples, juicy pears, citrus brightness, and cozy spice in a light yet satisfying dish.

This salad is more than just a side—it’s a seasonal experience. The sweetness of ripe fruit paired with a fragrant orange cinnamon dressing makes it perfect for everything from holiday brunches to weeknight desserts. It’s wholesome, naturally sweetened, visually stunning, and incredibly easy to prepare.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy fall dessert, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a refreshing contrast to heavier autumn meals, this recipe deserves a permanent place in your seasonal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Fall Fruit Salad

This isn’t your average fruit salad. Here’s why it stands out:

Seasonal perfection: Uses peak autumn fruits for maximum flavor
Naturally sweet: Sweetened with fruit and honey—no refined sugar overload
Quick & no-cook: Ready in under 30 minutes
Versatile: Works as breakfast, dessert, or side dish
Beautiful presentation: Ideal for holidays and entertaining

The orange cinnamon dressing ties everything together, adding warmth without overpowering the fruit’s freshness.

The Magic of Orange Cinnamon Dressing

What makes this recipe truly special is the dressing. Fresh orange juice provides acidity and brightness, while cinnamon adds warmth and depth. A touch of honey balances the citrus, creating a silky dressing that clings gently to the fruit instead of pooling at the bottom of the bowl.

Unlike creamy fruit salads, this dressing keeps everything light and refreshing—perfect after rich autumn meals.

Ingredients

For the Fall Fruit Salad

Fresh apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), sliced
Ripe pears, cubed
Seedless red or green grapes, halved
Pomegranate arils
Fresh orange segments

For the Orange Cinnamon Dressing

Freshly squeezed orange juice
Orange zest
Honey or maple syrup
Ground cinnamon
Vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the fruit: Wash, peel, and cut all fruit into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large mixing bowl.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, honey, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Combine: Pour dressing over the fruit.
Toss gently: Use a large spoon to coat all fruit evenly without bruising.
Chill briefly: Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve: Garnish with extra cinnamon or orange zest just before serving.

Tips for the Best Fruit Salad

Choose firm apples and pears to prevent sogginess
Add citrus last to preserve texture
Toss gently to keep fruit intact
Chill briefly, not overnight, for best freshness

Delicious Variations

Add nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch
Boost protein: Add Greek yogurt on the side
Extra spice: Try nutmeg or cardamom
Holiday twist: Add dried cranberries

Serving Suggestions

As a Thanksgiving or fall brunch side
Alongside pancakes or waffles
Served chilled as a light dessert
With yogurt for breakfast parfaits

Nutritional Benefits

This autumn fruit recipe is loaded with fiber, vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural hydration. It’s heart-healthy, digestion-friendly, and naturally gluten-free—making it suitable for nearly everyone at the table.

A Seasonal Tradition Worth Keeping

Fruit salads have been part of American gatherings for generations, but this fall-inspired version brings a refined, modern twist. The orange cinnamon dressing echoes classic autumn flavors while keeping the dish fresh and light.

Once you try it, this salad becomes more than a recipe—it becomes a seasonal ritual.