These edible fruit baskets are a party trick every kid remembers. Hollow out fresh Honeycrisp apples, add a licorice handle, and fill them with sparkling club-soda fruit salad — you've got the cutest, most photogenic snack on the birthday party table (or a whimsical dessert for grownups too). Kids can help make them, and the whole thing comes together in about 15 minutes.
Choose a big, firm apple — you're going to hollow it out. Honeycrisp is our top pick because it's big enough to hold a good scoop of fruit and stays crisp for hours. Mutsu (Crispin) is even bigger — ideal when you want basket-sized apples. Order fresh from our orchard by clicking here.
Ingredients (makes 4 baskets)
- 4 large Honeycrisp or Mutsu apples
- 3 cups club soda or ginger ale
- 4 pieces long soft licorice (Twizzlers work great)
- 2 cups diced fresh fruit (strawberries, pineapple, kiwi, blueberries, grapes)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Farm Fresh Honey for a hint of sweetness
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
Directions
- Slice the top off each apple (about 1/2 inch down).
- Using an apple corer or a sturdy metal spoon, scoop out the inside of each apple, leaving about 1/4 inch of flesh intact around the walls so the basket stays sturdy.
- Dice the scooped apple flesh and add it to the bowl with the other diced fruit.
- Carefully cut two small notches on opposite sides of the apple rim, wide enough for a piece of licorice (don't cut all the way through the peel below).
- Slide each end of a licorice into the notches to form a handle.
- Toss the mixed diced fruit with the club soda (and honey if using) in a bowl.
- Spoon the fizzy fruit salad into each apple basket.
- Garnish with fresh mint if you like.
- Serve immediately — the club soda is at its bubbliest right after mixing.
Party Ideas & Variations
- Rainbow theme. Choose fruit in ROYGBIV order — strawberries, peaches, pineapple, kiwi, blueberries, grapes.
- Prevent browning. Toss the diced apple flesh with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice before mixing in.
- Adult version. Sub prosecco or moscato for the club soda. Fun cocktail garnish, especially for baby showers or bridal brunches.
- Prep ahead. Hollow the apples up to 4 hours in advance and store in cold water with a squeeze of lemon.
- Skip the licorice. A pretzel stick or a cinnamon stick makes an equally cute handle.
Made these? Send us a photo — we'll send you a coupon for 20% off your next order. Comment below or email [email protected]. Enjoy!
