Grapes are a delicious, sweet treat enjoyed all year round. While some prefer tart or zesty varietals, many love sweet and juicy grapes. Cotton candy grapes is one of the sweetest and most tasty grape varieties available. With its naturally candy-like flavor, it’s no wonder cotton candy grapes are often enjoyed as a dessert or sweet snack.
What Are Cotton Candy Grapes?
Cotton candy grapes are the result of a cross between two varietals: flavorful Thompson seedless, a greenish-white grape variety, and another smaller, sweeter variety – theFemale Himrod grape. Interestingly, these two fruits share several of the same genes, resulting in a grape with a sugary distinct taste and texture that’s often compared to cotton candy.
These grapes are native to California and can be found in markets around the world. They are larger than most other grapes and generally have a purple-ish exterior, although color can vary slightly depending on the varietal.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Cotton Candy Grapes?
Cotton candy grapes offer a unique blend of vitamins and antioxidants. Here are some of the benefits of regularly consuming cotton candy grapes:
• Powerful antioxidants – Grapes contain powerful antioxidants like zeaxanthin and lutein, which help protect the body from free radicals.
• Healthy heart – Consuming grapes regularly may help decrease LDL ( bad) cholesterol while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol.
• Cancer prevention – Studies show that grapes may help protect the body from certain types of cancers.
• Bone health – Grapes contain components like boron, potassium, and vitamin K that may help strengthen bones and joints.
• Diabetes prevention – The antioxidants present in grapes may help protect the body from diabetes-related issues.
How To Choose Good Cotton Candy Grapes
When selecting cotton candy grapes, try to find plump, firm grapes with a vibrant purple-ish exterior. Avoid grapes that are leaking or have gained an overly soft texture.
The harvest season for cotton candy grapes is typically mid to late summer and most brands offer this type of grape year-round. Additionally, the more you purchase, the cheaper they become – so don’t be afraid to stock up.
Cotton Candy Grapes Recipes
No matter how you decide to consume cotton candy grapes, you’ll be sure to enjoy their naturally sweet taste. From sweet snacks and desserts to salads and sangria, here are some of our favorite recipes featuring cotton candy grapes:
• Sweet Snack – Rinse your cotton candy grapes and enjoy them as a naturally sweet and healthy snack.
• Antioxidant Smoothie – Combine 1/2 cup of cotton candy grapes with one banana, 1/4 cup of blueberries, 1/4 cup of raspberries, and 1/2 cup of pomegranate juice to make a tasty smoothie.
• Grapes & Cheese Platter – Arrange some brie, blue cheese, and cream cheese on a plate. Then, add some halved cotton candy grapes, blackberries, and walnuts to create a sweet and savory platter.
• Golden Sangria – Mix 1/2 cup white wine, 1/2 cup orange juice, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/4 cup brandy. Then, add some halved cotton candy grapes, orange slices, and frozen or fresh raspberries for a refreshing and sweet drink.
• Grilled Cheese & Grapes – Spread some cream cheese and diced cotton candy grapes onto wheat or rye bread and grill until cheese is melted and bread is golden brown.
• Tropical Salad – Combine freshly chopped pineapple, mango, halved cotton candy grapes, and diced red onion. Then drizzle the fruit salad with a bit of honey, lime juice, and salt.
• Ice Cream – Puree one cup of cotton candy grapes and combine with one pint of your favorite ice cream. Swirl the puree into the ice cream and freeze until solid.
• Glazed Grapes – Make a simple glaze by mixing 1 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer, then stir in one cup of halved cotton candy grapes. Cook uncovered and let cool.
• Chocolate Bark – Cover a sheet pan with parchment paper and spread out one cup of chopped dark chocolate. Sprinkle the melted chocolate with chili powder, flaky salt, and one cup of halved cotton candy grapes. Refrigerate until set.
Cotton candy grapes are incredibly sweet and flavorful grapes with a unique candy-like taste. Loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, as well as numerous health benefits, these grapes can be enjoyed in a variety of sweet and savory recipes or as a nutritious snack. Whether you opt for grilled cheese and grapes, a refreshing sangria, or a simple bowl of freshly-picked grapes – you’ll be sure to enjoy the unique and delicious flavor of cotton candy grapes.
