Opens in a new tab

Refreshing Cinnamon Coconut Fruit Salad with a Tropical Twist

This Cinnamon Coconut Fruit Salad is a tropical twist on the classic—refreshing, vibrant, and full of flavor! 🥥🍍 With juicy fruits, a hint of cinnamon, and sweet coconut flakes, it’s perfect for brunch, picnics, or a light side dish. Serve it chilled for a burst of sunshine in every bite!

Bowl of Chilled Cinnamon Coconut Fruit Salad

Would you like to liven up your typical fruit salad? This cinnamon coconut fruit salad might be just what you’re looking for, with its perfect blend of subtle spice and a tropical twist. The flavor combination is simply irresistible and works for so many occasions. A while back, I had some friends over for a crafting night, and this salad stole the show. 

It was light, refreshing, and so easy to snack on while we worked on our projects. Best of all, we didn’t feel guilty about indulging since it’s such a wholesome and fruity treat. Whether for a cozy get-together or a quick family side dish, this fruit salad is guaranteed to delight! 

A Fresh Take on Fruit Salad

If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy fruit, this cinnamon coconut fruit salad is a must-try! With its combination of subtle spices and tropical flavors, it’s perfect for any gathering or casual meal. Let’s get started! 

Step 1: Pick Out Your Favorite Fruit

Pick out your favorite fruit! There really is no limit here. I usually pick strawberries, blueberries, and cantaloupe at a minimum. In the picture here I added in pears. I have also made this cinnamon coconut fruit salad with grapes, pineapple, and apples. Any combination of fruit is fine so pick your favorite! This is also a really great way to use up extra fruit from the fridge before it goes bad. Altogether, you want about a medium sized bowl full of fruit. 

Cantalope, Strawberries, and Blueberries Spread out on a Wood Counter

Fruit salad is dessert's healthy cousin.

Heidi's fresh fruit cheesecake is the real thing.

Made in small batches at the bakery in Knoxville. Pick one up on Greenway Drive.
See the Bakery's Cheesecakes!

Step 2: Add Juices and Flavorings

Put all the fruit in a large bowl and add 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1/4 cup of orange juice, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of sweetened and flaked coconut. This is my particular proportion of flavoring, but you may want to add more or less of each ingredient. I have a tendency to be a little heavy-handed on the coconut since it’s my favorite! But like I said before, this recipe has a lot of flexibility and it has never turned out bad! 

Bowl of Fruit, Coconut, Lemon Juice, Orange Juice, and Cinnamon in a Bowl

Step 3: Mix and Let It Chill

Gently mix everything together in your bowl, making sure all the fruit is evenly coated with the juices, cinnamon, and coconut. Take your time to toss it carefully so you don’t squish any of the softer fruits. Once mixed, cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together into a delicious, refreshing blend. This resting time really makes a difference in bringing out the best of each ingredient! 

Fruit and Ingredients Mixed Together in Clear Glass Bowl

Step 4: Serve Up Your Cinnamon Coconut Fruit Salad

Once the cinnamon coconut fruit salad is chilled, serve it up! For added flavor you may want to add a sprinkle of mint leaves on top. I usually serve this fruit salad as a side dish for dinner. I think it goes well with my 3 ingredient tangy marinated chicken fresh off the grill! For a kid’s birthday party I divided the fruit among small paper cups (with a fork stuck inside) and served them as an appetizer. 

Bowl of Chilled Cinnamon Coconut Fruit Salad

Perfect for Any Occasion

Another night, I served the salad the same way for a ladies’ craft night, and once again, it was a big hit. Everyone loved how easy it was to grab a serving, and cleanup couldn’t have been simpler. I think this cinnamon coconut fruit salad would also shine at brunch, especially paired with some mini blueberry peach scones or even a light quiche. 

It’s versatile enough for holidays, backyard barbecues, or even a casual weekday treat. No matter the occasion, this salad delivers that perfect balance of freshness and sweetness. However you decide to serve it, I’m confident it’ll bring smiles all around. Happy cooking y’all!

Cinnamon Coconut Fruit Salad Pin
Bowl of Chilled Cinnamon Coconut Fruit Salad

Cinnamon Coconut Fruit Salad

Fresh fruit tossed with lemon and orange juice, a touch of cinnamon and sweet flaked coconut for a refreshing tropical twist. A flexible, 10-minute side that uses up whatever fruit you have.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chilling 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups mixed fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, pears, grapes, pineapple or apples
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup sweetened flaked coconut or more to taste
  • fresh mint leaves optional, for serving

Method
 

  1. Wash and cut the fruit into bite-size pieces; you want about a medium bowl full.
  2. Add the lemon juice, orange juice, cinnamon and coconut and toss gently so the soft fruit does not get crushed.
  3. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld.
  4. Serve chilled, topped with mint if you like.

Notes

Adjust the juice, cinnamon and coconut to taste. Great for using up fruit before it turns.
Heidi Davison

Head Baker & Owner

Hi, I'm Heidi, Head Baker and Owner of Heidi's Bakery in Knoxville, TN.

What began as a blog to share family recipes has become a thriving bakery, thanks to community support.
Many recipes here are from my family’s cookbook. Give them a try and leave a comment below!

Heidi Davison the Owner of Heidis Bakery

Leave the first comment

Recipe Rating




0