Apple Tray
A fresh and creamy apple tray featuring colorful apple halves and a sweet cream cheese dip, perfect for entertaining or a healthy snack for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and add pineapple juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- Mix until smooth and serve at room temperature.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- Slice green and red apples of equal size and shape into eighths.
- Core each apple slice.
- Dip apple slices in pineapple juice mixed with water or citrus juice to prevent discoloration.
- Piece apples back together as halves, alternating green and red.
- Arrange the striped apple halves onto a tray of lettuce leaves, circling the apple dip.
- Optional: add grapes and/or pears to the tray for variety.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dip, consider substituting half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. If you want to add a tropical twist, mango juice can replace the pineapple juice. Always slice apples right before serving to maintain freshness. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced apples can be used, but ensure they are coated in juice immediately to prevent browning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the apple tray as a fun appetizer at gatherings or as a light dessert. Pair it with a cheese platter for a balanced spread. For a refreshing drink, consider serving with iced tea or lemonade. This dish pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Butterscotch Cookies for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep apple slices separate to avoid sogginess. To refresh the dip, stir it again before serving. Avoid freezing the dip as cream cheese may change texture once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Tray contains roughly 490 calories, with 1g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, give it a good stir to restore its smooth texture. However, prepare the apple slices fresh to ensure they stay crisp and vibrant.
What types of apples work best for this recipe?
A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji, works wonderfully. This combination enhances the flavor profile and adds visual appeal. Feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties to find the perfect balance for your palate.
How can I prevent the apples from browning?
Dipping the apple slices in a mixture of pineapple juice and water or citrus juice effectively prevents discoloration. You can also use a commercial produce wash designed for fruits if you prefer a different method. Just make sure to coat the slices immediately after cutting.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).