If you’re looking for a fun, fresh, and light dessert or appetizer that will wow your guests, Fruit Salsa with Baked Cinnamon Chips is the perfect recipe! Bursting with vibrant, juicy fruits and paired with crispy cinnamon chips, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a healthier alternative to traditional sweet dips. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and crunchy, making it ideal for summer parties, family gatherings, or a tasty snack.
Ingredients:
For the Fruit Salsa:
- 2 kiwis, peeled and diced
- 2 Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 8 oz raspberries
- 1 (16 oz) carton of strawberries, diced
- 2 tbsp white sugar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp fruit preserves (I used strawberry; adjust to 2 tbsp if you prefer less sweetness)
For the Cinnamon Chips:
- 10 (10-inch) flour tortillas
- Melted butter or butter-flavored cooking spray
For the Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fruit Salsa:
- In a large bowl, combine the kiwis, Golden Delicious apples, raspberries, and strawberries.
- Add the white sugar, brown sugar, and fruit preserves to the bowl. Mix everything gently, being careful not to mash the fruit too much.
- Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes. The chilling helps the flavors meld together and makes the salsa extra refreshing.
- Make the Cinnamon Chips:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat one side of each flour tortilla with melted butter or butter-flavored cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine white sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the buttered side of each tortilla.
- Cut the tortillas into wedges (like you would slice a pizza) and arrange them in a single layer on a large baking sheet. If you prefer extra crispy chips, you can spray the wedges again with cooking spray after they’ve been cut.
- Bake the Cinnamon Chips:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chips are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once baked, allow the cinnamon chips to cool for about 15 minutes on the baking sheet. They will crisp up even more as they cool.
- Serve:
- Once the cinnamon chips have cooled, serve them with the chilled fruit salsa. Enjoy immediately!
Why You’ll Love This Fruit Salsa with Baked Cinnamon Chips:
- Fresh and Healthy: Packed with fresh fruit, this fruit salsa is full of vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness. It’s a refreshing, guilt-free treat that’s perfect for hot summer days.
- Crispy Cinnamon Chips: The baked cinnamon chips are the perfect crunchy counterpart to the juicy, sweet salsa. They add a warm, spiced flavor that complements the freshness of the fruit.
- Customizable: You can adjust the fruit mix based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Add mango, pineapple, or blueberries for variety. You can also use different preserves or jam flavors to change up the salsa’s taste.
- Perfect for Entertaining: This is a great snack for parties or gatherings. It’s easy to make ahead, and everyone can dip their own chips into the fruit salsa, making it a fun and interactive dish to share.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it Even Sweeter: If you want a sweeter dip, consider adding a bit of honey or maple syrup to the fruit salsa. Start with a tablespoon and adjust to taste.
- Add a Citrus Twist: For a little extra zing, add a splash of lime juice or lemon juice to the fruit salsa. The acidity will balance the sweetness and add a refreshing note.
- Crispy Alternative: If you’re not a fan of flour tortillas, try making the cinnamon chips with whole wheat tortillas or even corn tortillas for a different flavor.
- Serve with Other Dips: If you want to switch things up, serve the fruit salsa with cinnamon graham crackers or cinnamon pita chips instead of the tortilla chips.
- Make it Vegan: If you want a dairy-free version, simply use vegan butter or cooking spray for the chips and choose fruit preserves that are free from animal products.
Benefits of Fruit Salsa with Baked Cinnamon Chips:
- Packed with Nutrients: The fruit salsa is loaded with healthy nutrients like fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, making it a wholesome choice for a light snack or dessert.
- Low in Fat: Since the cinnamon chips are baked instead of fried, they are a much lighter and healthier alternative to traditional chips, making this a guilt-free indulgence.
- Kid-Friendly: This is a great recipe for kids! It’s fun, colorful, and interactive, plus they can help with assembling the fruit salsa or sprinkling the cinnamon sugar on the tortillas.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make the cinnamon chips ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the cinnamon chips ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. They’ll stay crispy and delicious.
Q: Can I use frozen fruit for the salsa?
A: While fresh fruit is best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen fruit in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw the fruit and drain off any excess liquid before mixing it into the salsa.
Q: How can I make this salsa spicier?
A: For a spicy kick, add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the fruit salsa. The heat pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the fruit!
Q: Can I serve this with something other than cinnamon chips?
A: Absolutely! You can serve the fruit salsa with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or even sliced apple wedges for a healthier twist. If you want a more savory option, try it with baked pita chips.
Final Thoughts:
Fruit Salsa with Baked Cinnamon Chips is a deliciously fresh and creative treat that’s perfect for sharing. The sweet and tangy salsa paired with warm, cinnamon-sugar chips creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you serve it at a party or just enjoy it as a snack, it’s sure to be a hit!