13 Best Fruit Trays For Creative Food Presentations in 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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When throwing a party, the food is always a key factor in making it a success. Epic fruit platter ideas are endless, making them perfect for any event. And since they're healthy and delicious, you really can't go wrong.
Fresh fruits are also the perfect food you can present in an eye-catching way, and you can do so with the best fruit trays! These containers not only enhance the aesthetics of the food but also make them more accessible to guests.
Whether you want a simple fruit platter or those with different compartments, we've got you covered, so read on!
Best Overall: US Acrylic Avant Serving Tray Runner-Up: INNOVATIVE LIFE Fruit Tray Most Convenient: Elama Ceramic Stoneware Condiment Appetizer Set Best for Picnics: Mwellewm Fruit Platter Tray Best Space-Saving: LAUCHUH Serving Stand and Platters Most Durable: Renawe Wooden Fruit Tray Best Display: MK Crew Serving Tray with Handles Best Simple: Mint Living Serving Tray and Platter Set Most Practical: Chef's Star Serving Tray Best Splurge: Manspdier Stand and Towers Serving Tray Best Versatile: Youeon Divided Serving Tray Best Value: Prestee Serving Trays and Platters Cutest Design: ZOOFOX Serving Platter |
“We have used these trays to exhibit a variety of fresh fruits at family get-togethers and parties, and they looked really stunning because of their white and modern style. The tray is offered as a three-piece set, which is a fantastic deal.
Additionally, they are long-lasting, and we can tell they are constructed of high-quality plastic that is neither flimsy nor inexpensive. The compartments' dimensions also give all the fruit plenty of room.”
Material: Polystyrene | Dimensions: 15" x 10" x 2" | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Manufactured: USA
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“This fruit tray boasts three layers: an ice compartment on the bottom, a fruit tray in the middle, and a lid on top. We like how the ice tray keeps the fresh fruit platter refreshingly cool, even during hot days, and the tray and lid keep them fresh and protected from dust and bugs.
Another feature we loved is its transparency, which allows the user to display the colorful fruits beautifully, making it an attractive centerpiece for any party. There’s also a space for fruit dips so the fruits or other foods are more appealing to eat.”
Material: Acrylic | Dimensions: 14.76" x 11" x 4.56" | Dishwasher Safe: No | Manufactured: China
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“This serving tray for fruits exceeded our expectations regarding quality and versatility. The generous-sized serving bowls can be used together or separately, allowing us to create a clean and organized presentation for our fruits.
The bamboo spinning platform underneath the bowls is sturdy and supports the weight of the heavy ceramic material of the bowls/sections. We also appreciate that Elama offers an extended warranty for this product.”
Material: Stoneware and bamboo | Dimensions: 12” x 2.25" | Dishwasher Safe: Yes (ceramic only) | Manufactured: China
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“One of the advantages of this fruit platter is that it's made of high-quality PET material, which is known for its sturdiness and lightweight characteristic. The clear lid is a nice touch since it allows us to keep the food fresh and protected.
We also like the divided design, which is useful for serving different fruits and is handy for portion control and keeping different foods separate.”
Material: Plastic | Dimensions: 13.7" x 2" x 13.7" | Dishwasher Safe: No
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“The porcelain plates are high quality, making them solid and durable. As for the stand, it is sturdy and simple to assemble. We also appreciate that they can be taken apart for easy flat storage and are more convenient to store when not in use.
Moreover, the price point is just right for its quality and functionality. It is not overly fancy, giving us more freedom to add our personal touches to the stand.”
Material: Metal and porcelain | Dimensions: 11.69" x 6.18" | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Manufactured: China
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“We are satisfied with this product's quality and design because they are functional and beautiful. The tray is made of high-quality wood, which is thick and durable, ensuring it will last for a long time.
We love the natural color of the wood, which allows us to appreciate its grain and texture differences. Furthermore, the tray is the perfect size to accommodate a variety of fruits, and its unique shape adds to its elegant appearance.”
Material: Acacia wood | Dimensions: 12" x 12" x 1" | Dishwasher Safe: No | Manufactured: China
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“This tray is a terrific option for eco-conscious people because the ceramic and metal components can be recycled. Plus, the quality of the ceramic dishes is top-notch.
The gold metal frame adds a touch of sophistication to the tray, and the handles make it hassle-free to carry from the kitchen to the table or wine cart. The five removable dishes are perfectly sized for small gatherings, but if you’re hosting a larger party, you may need to refill them often.”
Material: Ceramic and metal | Dimensions: 14.1" x 8.3" x 1.7" | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Manufactured: China
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“Although these were a bit smaller than we expected, they work great for serving fruit. We appreciate that they are labeled as disposable, but honestly, they are too pretty to toss after one use. And they're sturdy enough to survive a single use.
These platters made our table look elegant, and they would work well with many different decor styles. These are perfect for any celebration, including birthdays, holidays, baby showers, and more!”
Material: Plastic | Dimensions: 13" x 8" | Dishwasher Safe: No | Manufactured: China
“We have been using this fruit tray for various purposes and are delighted with its features. We primarily use it for fruits and veggies, and it's perfect for keeping them cool with the ice underneath each compartment.
Moreover, we thought it might be flimsy, but it really isn’t. We also like how the airtight covers on every compartment keep the bugs away. It is very versatile, and it makes snacking a breeze!”
Material: Acrylic | Dimensions: 16.4" x 16.4" x 4.13" | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
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“We love how the acacia wood boasts beautiful grains that add a natural and warm touch to any decor. The quality of the wood is also excellent, making the trays durable and sturdy enough for their purpose. They also require no installation, so you can set them up quickly.
You need to clean the trays properly to maintain their quality. Wash them by hand with water and mild soap, then wipe them with a towel. Allow them to air dry to make sure there is no more water. You can also occasionally apply mineral oil so they maintain their shiny surface”.
Material: Acacia wood and metal | Dimensions: 17" x 24" x 9.5" | Dishwasher Safe: No | Manufactured: China
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“We like how the ceramic bowls perfectly fit in the bamboo tray, making them compact and preventing spillage. Since they are on the small side, they are perfect for a small group of friends while playing fun wine games.
Cleaning the bowls is also quick and easy as they are dishwasher safe. Meanwhile, the bamboo tray is equally impressive, with its smooth finish and strong build. It provides a stable container for the ceramic bowls, making them easy to carry from place to place. ”
Material: Bamboo and ceramic | Dimensions: 3.5" x 3.5" x 2.1" ; 11" x 7.5" x 1.18" | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
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“These trays are lightweight and stack tightly, making them easy to store in a cabinet or bookshelf. Although they are not meant to be long-lasting, we found that the quality is excellent for the price we paid.
We used them for hot and cold food without any issues, and after washing them, they are ready for the next use. Overall, we are satisfied with our purchase and look forward to using them for future events.”
Material: Polystyrene plastic | Dimensions: 9" x 13” | Dishwasher Safe: No | Manufactured: China
“Each fruit platter has four compartments, allowing different fruits to retain their own flavors since they don't touch each other. We also like that the plates come in three colors, blue, green, and pink, so we can choose the perfect hue to match any party theme.
Additionally, they are made from high-quality material that is lightweight and chip-resistant. Surely, these will last for many gatherings to come.”
Material: Wheat straw and PP material | Dimensions: 11" x 11" x 1.6" | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
With the right fruit trays, there should be no more excuses why you can't serve the best fruit platter at your next party! They are simple containers, but they allow you to unleash your creativity and bring out the beauty in fruits!
If you need a quick suggestion, try our top pick, the US Acrylic Avant Serving Tray! They are spacious and have great value, and the compartments assist in arranging fruits without making them look messy.
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With many different fruit trays to choose from, how do you determine which is best for your needs? Here are some factors to consider so you can narrow down your choices.
Different materials have benefits and drawbacks concerning durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
If you're looking for a durable, shatterproof option, acrylic is the way to go. But it can scratch easily and may or may not be dishwasher safe. PET plastic is another cost-effective and lightweight option. However, it's less strong than other materials and is usually disposable.
For adding an elegant touch to their table setting, ceramic and porcelain are excellent options. While thick and heavy, they are not resistant to cracks and chipping, making them less practical for outdoor use or busy environments.
Wood not only looks naturally attractive but is also durable and versatile. But it requires more maintenance and degrades over time.
“The ideal fruit tray should have ample space to accommodate various fruit types or garnishes without overcrowding. Some trays offer multiple compartments or tiers, which can help keep different fruits separate and organized,” says Anthony Psyk from Brew That Coffee.
“Also, consider the size of your work area and the amount of fruit you typically use when selecting the appropriate tray,” he adds.
A smaller fruit platter is sufficient for a small gathering or intimate setting, while a larger tray is necessary for a larger party to save time and effort in refilling it. For precision, look at the tray's dimensions so you have a clear expectation before receiving the product.
You may also measure the area where you plan to place the fruit platter and choose a tray that fits comfortably without being too big or too small.
Part of the appeal of fruit trays is the attractiveness they contribute to a table setup. The design should be not only functional but also visually appealing.
Common fruit trays are usually square, circular, or rectangular, which provides more space and allows more creativity in arranging the fruit.
Compartmentalized trays are useful for separating fruits with different ripening times or preventing juices from mixing. These trays can include an ice compartment which keeps your fruits cool and fresh longer, and a bowl at the center for fruit dips.
While they allow varieties of fruit, they can only fit fewer pieces of a particular variety per compartment and thus requires you to refill it often.
Some trays also come with lids and other utensils to make them more convenient.
If you plan to use the tray for a one-time event, a disposable tray might be the best option. They are convenient to use and are very light to pack. On the other hand, investing in a reusable and sturdy tray is a more sustainable option if you intend to use the tray repeatedly.
Choosing a tray that is easy to clean and maintain is important to ensure that it's always ready for your next event.
Be careful with plastic trays because some may warp during a dishwashing cycle. If so, it’s better to wash them by hand. If a tray has a wooden component, you can wash it with water but you may wipe it clean with a damp cloth instead.
The price of a fruit tray depends on its material, size, and design. It's essential to find a fruit tray that fits your budget while still meeting your needs in terms of functionality and aesthetics.
Fruit trays can be bought for as low as $19 and as high as $43. But you should also consider how many pieces of trays are in a set.
Common fruits used in platters are strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, grapes, apples, pineapple, kiwi, mango, and orange slices. These fruits pack a punch in both flavor and aesthetics, and they all complement each other perfectly.
But we recommend that you go for fruits that are in season. This will ensure that your fruits are ripe and flavorful. And try to incorporate a range of flavors and textures to keep things interesting, like tart berries, sweet melons, and tangy citrus fruits.
First, choose a tray or platter that’s large enough to hold all your fruit and has enough space for each piece to be displayed attractively. A white or clear tray is often preferred, as it helps the colors of the fruit to pop.
Next, wash and dry your fruit thoroughly before arranging them. For larger fruits like pineapple and melon, peel and slice them into bite-size pieces. For smaller fruits like berries, grapes, and cherries, you can leave them whole.
To start the arrangement, place a larger, colorful fruit like pineapple, watermelon, or cantaloupe in the center of the platter as a focal point. Surround this with other fruits like kiwi, oranges, or strawberries to create a vibrant centerpiece.
Varying the height of your fruit is also an excellent way to add depth and dimension to your display. You can do this by stacking fruits like oranges or apples on top of each other or using a cake stand to elevate some of your fruit.
Fill in any gaps with smaller fruits like berries, grapes, or cubed melons. Use the colors and textures of the fruit to create a balanced and visually appealing display.
Consider the number of guests and the types of fruit you'll be using. A general rule is to have about 2-3 servings of fruit per person.
For a small gathering of 6-8 people, use about 2-3 pounds of fruit, and for a larger gathering of 20-25 people, use about 6-8 pounds.
Remember to balance out the types of fruit, as some are more filling than others. And don't be afraid to have a bit extra in case some people want more fruit.
Store your fruit in a cool and dry place far from direct sunlight to preserve its freshness and quality. If you're preparing your fruit tray in advance, it's best to do so as close to serving time as possible. This helps to ensure that the fruit stays fresh and tasty.
Fruits like apples, pears, and bananas should be prepared just before serving to prevent browning caused by oxidation.
If you need to display the tray for a more extended period, covering it with plastic wrap or a lid can protect it from air exposure and keep it moist.
Also, keep your fruit tray chilled until you're ready to serve it. Keeping it in the fridge for up to two hours before serving or on a bed of ice can help keep the fruit fresh and chilled.
Think about incorporating some variety into your fruit selection. This can include exotic fruits like dragonfruit and starfruit or seasonal fruits at their peak flavor.
Mixing fruits with different ripening processes or high acidity levels is a big no-no. For example, bananas and citrus fruits should never be combined, as their different ripening processes can affect the flavor and texture of both fruits.
And mixing high acid fruits, like pineapple and strawberries, with low-acid fruits, like melons and apples, can lead to a mushy mess.
You can also make a fruit dip, which is usually made with cream cheese, marshmallow creme, and vanilla, or prepare a chocolate dip for a more epic fruit platter.
We believe that our readers should have access to unbiased, well-informed reviews when deciding which products to buy, and we work hard to provide that type of content. Our editorial team is experienced and passionate about mixology and bar equipment. In addition, we often consult with industry professionals when gathering information, which gives us an insider's perspective on the products we're reviewing.
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