The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn, and when it comes to Halloween, I like balancing spooky sweets with a touch of fresh, healthy fun. Growing up in Crete, fruit always played a big part in our family meals, and I love bringing that tradition into modern celebrations.
These Jack-o’-Lantern Fruit Cups with orange slices are the perfect no-bake Halloween treat. They’re adorable mini pumpkins made by carving little jack-o’-lantern faces into hollowed-out oranges, then filling them with fresh orange slices or fruit salad.
They’re fun for kids to help make, naturally sweet, and a refreshing alternative to candy overload. Plus, they look amazing on a Halloween party table!
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Jack-o’-Lantern Fruit Cups
- 6 medium oranges (or tangerines for smaller cups)
- 2 cups fresh orange slices (or mixed fruit salad)
- Optional: grapes, kiwi chunks, pineapple, or berries for variety
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the oranges
Wash the oranges well. Slice off the top (about ½ inch) to make a lid. Carefully scoop out the inside using a spoon, keeping the peel intact. Set the orange flesh aside for filling.
Step 2: Carve the jack-o’-lantern faces
Use a small paring knife to carefully cut out triangle eyes and a jagged smile, just like carving a pumpkin. Be gentle so the peel doesn’t tear.
Step 3: Fill the fruit cups
Chop the scooped-out orange flesh into bite-sized pieces and mix with other fruits if desired. Fill each hollowed orange cup generously with fruit.
Step 4: Add the lids and serve
Place the “lid” back on top at an angle for a pumpkin look. Arrange the fruit cups on a festive tray for serving.
Serving Suggestions
These Jack-o’-Lantern Fruit Cups make an excellent addition to a Halloween party spread, especially if you want a balance between sweet treats and healthier options. They’re also great for school parties since they’re allergen-friendly and kid-approved.
For a colorful twist, fill some with just orange fruit (like mandarin, cantaloupe, and mango) for a monochrome pumpkin effect, and others with rainbow fruit salad for a surprise inside.
Conclusion
Cooking and decorating for Halloween doesn’t have to be complicated. These Jack-o’-Lantern Fruit Cups with orange slices are proof that simple ideas can still bring lots of joy. They’re healthy, festive, and so much fun to make with kids.
This year, carve some oranges instead of pumpkins you’ll get a snack that’s as cute as it is refreshing.