Bessie Mae Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad with sweet bananas, apples, grapes, and pineapple, topped with a warm pecan-marshmallow glaze, perfect for casual gatherings and family desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour the pineapple juice into a pan and mix in the flour, sugar, and marshmallows.
- Cook the mixture until it begins to thicken; then set aside to cool.
- Peel and slice the orange, bananas, and apples.
- Combine the sliced fruits with the grapes and chopped pecans in a large bowl.
- Pour the cooled glaze over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding shredded coconut or swapping out the pecans for walnuts. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can use a sugar substitute or just lessen the amount of sugar in the glaze. This fruit salad pairs beautifully with Shirley'S Punch, making it a great addition to any gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fruit salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light dessert. It goes well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. For a more filling option, consider pairing it with a scoop of yogurt or cottage cheese for added protein.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, keep the fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruits can become mushy. If the glaze separates, just give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bessie Mae Fruit Salad contains roughly 877 calories, with 16g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (139% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add a great flavor and texture to the salad. Just be sure to keep some juice to use in the glaze, or you can substitute with fresh orange juice for a zesty kick.
What other fruits can I add?
Feel free to experiment with other fruits like strawberries, peaches, or kiwi. The key is to choose fruits that are ripe and in season to enhance the overall flavor of your Bessie Mae Fruit Salad.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit salad up to a day in advance. However, it's best to add the glaze just before serving to prevent the fruits from becoming soggy. Store the fruit mixture and glaze separately until you're ready to combine them.
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).