Easy Fruit Salsa & Homemade Cinnamon Chips: A Refreshing and Healthy Sweet Treat
Searching for a delightful and guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet cravings? Look no further than this incredible fruit salsa recipe, served alongside irresistible homemade cinnamon chips. It’s a vibrant, flavorful, and wonderfully healthy snack or dessert that promises to become a family favorite. This recipe isn’t just easy to make; it’s a burst of fresh flavor and crispy texture that will leave everyone asking for more, proving that healthy eating can be absolutely delicious.
Our home has truly become a haven for dip enthusiasts. While I didn’t grow up with an abundance of dips, my husband’s passion for them quickly won me over. He possesses an uncanny ability to find or create the most delicious dips, transforming me into a true connoisseur myself! From savory to sweet, dips have become a staple in our household, providing endless opportunities for fun and flavorful snacking. This particular fruit salsa and cinnamon chips recipe holds a special place, as it effortlessly combines freshness with a delightful crunch, making it perfect for any occasion.
Why We Love Dips (And You Will Too!)
Our love for dips is undeniable, and if you’ve explored our recipes before, you’ll know exactly what we mean! We’ve shared countless favorites over the years, from savory sensations to sweet indulgences. You might recall our immensely popular Skinny Pumpkin Dip, a seasonal delight that quickly became a reader favorite. Then there’s the incredibly satisfying Warm Bacon Cheese Dip served with crispy breadsticks, perfect for game nights or cozy gatherings. And, of course, a personal staple for any occasion, our flavorful Ranch Hummus Dip. Each one offers a unique flavor profile and a satisfying experience.
While some might think it’s repetitive to share so many dip and salsa recipes, we believe in sharing what truly brings joy and deliciousness to our table. Ultimately, the best recipes are the ones that get eaten and loved by everyone. This fruit salsa recipe is no exception; it’s designed to be enjoyed, shared, and savored by all. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to sacrifice flavor.
The Versatility of Fresh Fruit Salsa
One of the best aspects of this homemade fruit salsa recipe is its incredible adaptability. Living in a fruit-abundant region like California means we often have access to a wide variety of fresh produce, making it easy to find perfectly ripe strawberries and raspberries, sometimes even at unbeatable prices! (We recently found them for just 99 cents a pound – what a steal!)
However, you absolutely don’t need to live in an agricultural paradise to enjoy this recipe. This fruit salsa is remarkably forgiving and can be customized with whatever fruits are in season or readily available at your local grocery store. Don’t hesitate to experiment with diced peaches, mangoes, grapes, oranges, apples, or even a mix of melons. The key is to use fresh, ripe fruit for the best flavor and texture. This makes it an ideal year-round snack or dessert, fitting perfectly into any menu, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a bright treat in the colder months.
Beyond its versatility, this fruit salsa offers significant health benefits. Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber from the fresh fruit, it’s a smart choice for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing taste. It’s a refreshing alternative to heavier desserts and a fantastic way to naturally boost your fruit intake. The quick preparation time is another major bonus, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Trust us, the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients will make this taste truly heavenly, far surpassing any store-bought alternative.
The Irresistible Charm of Homemade Cinnamon Chips
While the fruit salsa is undeniably delicious, let’s be honest: the homemade cinnamon chips are truly the unsung heroes of this recipe. They are the star that elevates this simple fruit mixture into an extraordinary dessert experience. Imagine perfectly crispy, golden-brown tortilla chips, generously coated with a sparkling blend of sugar and warm cinnamon. The aroma alone is enough to get your mouth watering!
My kids absolutely adore these chips, and it’s easy to see why. Their sweet, crunchy texture is the ideal counterpoint to the fresh, juicy fruit salsa. This delightful combination creates a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. And here’s the best part: these cinnamon chips are surprisingly simple to make at home. Forget the store-bought alternatives; once you try these, you’ll never go back. They require just a few basic ingredients – flour tortillas, cooking spray, sugar, and cinnamon – and a quick bake in the oven.
The beauty of pairing these homemade cinnamon chips with a fresh fruit salsa is that it allows you to indulge your sweet tooth in a much healthier way. If you’ve made a New Year’s resolution to eat healthier or cut down on processed treats, this recipe is your secret weapon. The vibrant fruit salsa provides natural sweetness and essential nutrients, while the crispy cinnamon chips offer that satisfying crunch and a hint of indulgence, without the heavy guilt often associated with cookies and brownies. It’s the perfect compromise that helps you stick to your healthy eating goals while still enjoying delicious desserts.
Homemade Fruit Salsa and Cinnamon Chips Recipe
Ready to create this sensational snack or dessert for your family and friends? Below you’ll find the complete recipe for our delectable fruit salsa and the perfectly crispy cinnamon chips. This combination is truly where the party is at, offering a delightful experience that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying.
Fruit Salsa and Homemade Cinnamon Chips
Print
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
- Fruit salsa:
- 16- oz. strawberries diced
- 2 kiwi peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup raspberries
- 3 Tbsp. sugar-free apricot preserves or jam
- Cinnamon chips:
- 4 flour tortillas I used soft taco size
- cooking spray
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350º F. Cover a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
On a large plate, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Spray each tortilla front and back and carefully lay on the plate, one at a time. Move around lightly to get the cinnamon and sugar to adhere to the tortilla, then flip coating the other side.
-
With a pizza cutter, cut cinnamon and sugar tortilla in half and then each half into four pieces, creating 8 slices per tortilla. Spread out on the baking sheet. Repeat with all tortillas and then place in the oven for 8-10 minutes. Pull baking sheet from oven and set aside to cool.
-
Meanwhile, combine the fruit and the preserves in a medium sized bowl. Serve with cooled cinnamon chips and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Fruit Salsa and Cinnamon Chips
For the Fruit Salsa:
- Choose Ripe Fruits: The natural sweetness of ripe fruit is key to a delicious salsa. Taste your fruit before dicing and adjust the amount of apricot preserves if needed.
- Seasonal Selection: While the recipe calls for strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, and raspberries, feel free to get creative with other seasonal fruits. Diced peaches, mangoes, pineapple, or even a mix of melons can work wonderfully.
- Prevent Browning: If you’re using fruits like apples or bananas (which can brown quickly), a squeeze of lemon or lime juice can help maintain their vibrant color and add a zesty kick.
- Chill for Flavor: While you can serve the salsa immediately, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour can help the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Sugar-Free Preserves: Using sugar-free apricot preserves helps keep this dessert on the healthier side, providing sweetness without excessive added sugar. If you don’t have apricot, a sugar-free peach or even strawberry jam could work in a pinch.
For the Cinnamon Chips:
- Tortilla Choice: Soft taco-sized flour tortillas work best for an ideal chip size and texture. You can also experiment with smaller corn tortillas for a slightly different crunch, but adjust baking time accordingly.
- Even Coating: Ensure each tortilla is evenly sprayed with cooking spray and coated with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This guarantees consistent flavor and crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the cut tortilla pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they bake evenly and get perfectly crispy. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Watch Closely: Baking times can vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the chips, especially during the last few minutes, as they can go from golden to burnt very quickly. They should be lightly golden and firm to the touch.
- Cool Completely: Allow the chips to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. They will crisp up further as they cool, achieving that perfect crunch.
Why This Fruit Salsa and Cinnamon Chips Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
This delightful fruit salsa and homemade cinnamon chips recipe isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide array of occasions. Whether you’re planning a casual family snack, a sophisticated party appetizer, or a refreshing dessert, this dish fits the bill perfectly.
- Healthy Snack: For those mid-afternoon cravings or a light bite between meals, this combo offers a nutritious alternative to processed snacks. It’s satisfying and provides natural energy.
- Light Dessert: If you’re looking for a dessert that’s not too heavy but still satisfies a sweet tooth, this fruit salsa is ideal. It’s vibrant, fresh, and feels indulgent without the guilt.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: Easy to transport and universally loved, this recipe is a fantastic choice for potlucks, BBQs, picnics, or any social gathering. It always disappears fast!
- Kid-Friendly: Children are naturally drawn to the colorful fruit and sweet chips. It’s an excellent way to encourage them to eat more fruit in a fun and exciting way.
- Breakfast or Brunch Item: While typically a snack or dessert, a small bowl of fruit salsa with a few cinnamon chips can even make a refreshing addition to a brunch spread.
No matter the event, preparing this fruit salsa with homemade cinnamon chips is a thoughtful gesture that will be appreciated by all. It showcases fresh ingredients and a simple approach to delicious, healthy eating. It’s a testament that healthy options can be incredibly flavorful and enjoyable!
Share Your Sweet Creations!
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this vibrant fruit salsa with crispy homemade cinnamon chips as much as we do. It’s truly a recipe that brings smiles and satisfies cravings in the most delightful way. Don’t forget to let us know how it turned out and what fruit combinations you loved the most in the comments below!
Looking for more healthy fruit dishes? Try these too:
Baked Apples with Yogurt & Granola
Watermelon Fruit Salad with Mint-Lime Dressing
Creamy Citrus Fruit Dip
This recipe for Fruit Salsa and Homemade Cinnamon Chips was originally shared on I Heart Nap Time on May 22, 2014, and continues to be a beloved classic.