Grandpa Tom insisted this was “just fruit,” but everyone knew it was the sneaky dessert we came back for.

For picky eaters or nut allergies, skip the pecans or serve them on the side so everyone can sprinkle their own. You can also swap the pecans for chopped walnuts or sliced almonds if that’s what you have on hand. If your crew prefers things a little less tangy, use half sour cream and half vanilla yogurt, or replace the cream cheese with whipped topping to make it lighter and fluffier. For a slightly healthier take, cut the brown sugar in half and add a drizzle of honey over the top just before serving instead. You can also mix in other fruits with the grapes—like halved strawberries or chunks of pineapple—but keep the grapes as the main star so it still feels like Grandpa Tom’s original. For kids who like single servings, spoon the coated grapes into small glass jars or ramekins, sprinkle each with the brown sugar-pecan mixture, and freeze in individual portions. If you prefer more of a refrigerator salad than a freezer salad, simply chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours instead of freezing; the topping will still get that soft, caramel-like texture without the icy bite.