Daily Dish the Sonoma Market blog
DIY Fruit Basket
2023 Holiday Gift Guide
There’s something classic and timeless about a good, old-fashioned fruit basket. Seasonal fruit and savory nuts bring us back to simpler times with fresh flavors and a natural touch perfect for the holidays. Even better, you can build your own with a quick trip to our store and a few simple steps!
There’s something classic and timeless about a good, old-fashioned fruit basket. Seasonal fruit and savory nuts bring us back to simpler times with fresh flavors and a natural touch perfect for the holidays. Even better, you can build your own with a quick trip to our store and a few simple steps!
1. Base Basics: A fruit basket can be in any kind of vessel from a wicker basket, crate or tin to a decorative plate with a lip. Just make sure your choice is strong enough to support the filling!
Pro Tip: If you're making many smaller fruit trays, try using Bambu compostable plates as seen above.
2. Preliminary Padding: Protect your fruit from bruising and add visual interest with an in-between layer. Try using a dish towel, cloth napkins, tissue paper or fresh leaves.
Pro Tip: If your basket is deep, add extra stuffing to fill the space without adding weight.
3. Fruit Filling: Start with larger and sturdier fruits like pomegranates, pears or apples, then add smaller, more delicate fruits like tangerines and persimmons to help keep it stable.
Pro Tip: Consider color and size when selecting your produce—the more tints and types, the merrier!
4. Go Nuts: Add another layer of flavor with a variety of nuts! These can be anything from walnuts and pecans to macadamia nuts or chocolate-covered almonds.
Pro Tip: You can also add dried and candied fruits at this stage. Find nuts, dried apricots, candied ginger and more in our Bulk Department!
5. That’s a Wrap: Keep your fruits in place and in view by using a clear wrapping or (as seen pictured) wide strips of parchment paper tied with twine or ribbon.
Pro Tip: For a festive finishing touch, tie a sprig of rosemary or other fresh leaves to the top!
Got Fruit?
Pears, apples, pomegranates and citrus—oh my! This rainbow of natural sweetness won’t only look great in your fruit basket, it’ll taste great, too. They’re literally the fruits of the season! Mix it up with different apple or pear varieties for some extra pop. Drop by your local Nugget Market’s Produce Department to discover just how many options you have!
See what else is on our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide!
Selection may vary by store.