Fruit Ball Calories

To make a fruit ball, wash the fruit, cut it into bite-size pieces, and combine it shortly before serving. Fold the pieces together gently so softer fruits keep their shape.

Strawberries, grapes, melon, citrus, and kiwi can all work well in a fruit ball. Pair juicy fruits with firmer ones, and choose ripe but not mushy fruit so the mix stays pleasant to eat.

For a fruit ball with apple or pear, toss the cut pieces with a little lemon juice soon after cutting. Preparing these fruits close to serving time also helps limit browning.

To keep a fruit ball from becoming watery, dry washed fruit well and add very juicy pieces shortly before serving. Avoid mixing in sugar ahead of time, since it draws liquid out of cut fruit.

A fruit ball is best eaten the day it is made. Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator; cut fruit gradually softens and releases juice, so discard it if it develops an off smell or signs of spoilage.

You can freeze a fruit ball, but thawed fresh fruit is usually softer and releases liquid. For a snack meant to be eaten fresh, serve it chilled instead; frozen leftovers work better in smoothies or cooked dishes.

A fruit ball can be served chilled, which keeps it refreshing and helps it stay cool on the table. Chill the cut fruit in a covered container and assemble the serving close to mealtime.

A fruit ball pairs well with plain yogurt, or it can be served on its own as a light snack or dessert. Add any yogurt just before eating so the fruit does not sit in liquid.

For a toddler's fruit ball, cut round grapes lengthwise into quarters and make firm fruit pieces small and soft enough for the child's age. Serve while the child is seated and supervised.