Ambrosia Salad Recipe

If there is ever a time to embrace a retro classic, it’s with Ambrosia Salad. This dreamy, creamy fruit salad is a festive favorite that instantly brightens any table, whether for the holidays, a summer potluck, or a sweet weeknight treat. With its medley of juicy fruits, fluffy marshmallows, sweet coconut, and a hint of tang from the creamy base, Ambrosia Salad delivers a nostalgic burst of sunshine in every bite. It’s impossible not to smile when you scoop into this delightful blend of flavors and colors, and it’s even easier to make than you might imagine.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Sour Cream Mixture:

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

  Fruit and Add-Ins:

  • 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

How to Make Ambrosia Salad

Step 1: Make the Creamy Base

Start with a large mixing bowl, since you want plenty of room to combine everything without squishing the tender fruit. Gently fold together the sour cream and whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This playful pairing creates a light, dreamy base that will coat every single bite with creamy goodness.

Step 2: Add the Fruits and Mix-ins

Next, add in the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries. Each ingredient is packed with flavor and color, so as you fold them in, aim for a gentle touch. You want the fruits to stay as plump and pretty as possible! If you’re including pecans or walnuts, sprinkle those in now for a satisfying crunch.

Step 3: Combine Everything Gently

Carefully stir all the ingredients together with a spatula or large spoon. The key to perfect Ambrosia Salad is not overmixing: you want the fruits to remain whole and the marshmallows to keep their fluffiness. The salad should look colorful and luscious, with every ingredient shining through the creamy dressing.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least two hours, or even overnight if you have the time. This allows all the flavors to meld, the marshmallows to soften, and the whole salad to become delightfully chilled and cohesive. The wait is the hardest part, but it’s worth every minute for the perfect Ambrosia Salad experience!

How to Serve Ambrosia Salad

Garnishes

A simple garnish can turn your Ambrosia Salad into a showstopper. Try topping each serving with a few extra maraschino cherries, a sprinkle of coconut, or a scattering of chopped nuts. Not only does this add texture and color, it makes the dish look irresistibly festive—almost too pretty to eat (almost!).

Side Dishes

Ambrosia Salad is delightful as a dessert or sweet salad, often paired with savory dishes at potlucks or holiday feasts. It goes beautifully alongside ham, roasted turkey, barbecue, or a buffet of finger foods. Its tropical sweetness is a playful contrast to salty, rich main dishes, making it a real crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to take your Ambrosia Salad to the next level, try serving it in individual parfait glasses or hollowed-out orange halves for a playful, elegant twist. Mini trifle bowls, mason jars, or even lettuce cups can make each serving extra special and perfect for parties or brunch gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover Ambrosia Salad tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, though the texture is best within the first 24 hours as the marshmallows stay fluffiest early on. Give it a gentle stir before serving again to reincorporate any separation that may have occurred.

Freezing

While Ambrosia Salad doesn’t freeze well due to its delicate fruits and creamy base, some people do enjoy it slightly frozen as a unique twist. Be aware that thawing may result in a watery texture, so freezing is not recommended if you want to keep the classic creamy consistency.

Reheating

This dish is meant to be enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need for reheating. If it’s been in the fridge for a while, simply take it out and let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature before serving. This takes the chill off and brings out the best flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned fruit in Ambrosia Salad?

Absolutely! Fresh mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks can make the salad even more vibrant, but be sure to use ripe fruit and thoroughly drain any excess juice to prevent the salad from becoming runny.

Is there a way to make Ambrosia Salad dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap in coconut cream or your favorite dairy-free whipped topping and yogurt for the sour cream and Cool Whip. There are plenty of options that keep the salad creamy and delicious for everyone to enjoy.

How far ahead can I make Ambrosia Salad?

You can prepare Ambrosia Salad up to a day in advance. Chilling overnight actually enhances the flavors, but just leave out any bananas or extra fruit until right before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I leave out the coconut or nuts?

Of course! If you prefer a coconut-free or nut-free version, simply omit those ingredients. The beauty of Ambrosia Salad is how flexible it is to fit your family’s tastes and needs.

Why is my Ambrosia Salad watery?

This usually happens if the fruits weren’t fully drained. Be sure to drain all canned fruits well and pat the cherries dry before adding them. A quick stir before serving helps redistribute any separated liquid, keeping the salad creamy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll try this Ambrosia Salad recipe and fall in love with its cheerful flavors and creamy comfort, just like generations have before us. Whether you whip it up for a holiday table or a weekday treat, one spoonful is all it takes to bring a little bit of sunshine to your day!

Ambrosia Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 15 reviews

• Author: Kimberly
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Ambrosia Salad is a classic dessert salad perfect for holidays or potlucks. This creamy and fruity salad is a delightful mix of citrusy mandarin oranges, sweet pineapple, fluffy marshmallows, and more, all coated in a luscious sour cream and whipped topping dressing.

---

Ingredients

Sour Cream Mixture:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

Fruit and Add-Ins:

• 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the sour cream and whipped topping until smooth.
2. Add Fruits: Add the mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
3. Combine: Stir everything gently until evenly combined.
4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture.
5. Serve: Serve chilled.

---

Notes

• For a slightly tangier version, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the sour cream.
• You can also add fresh grapes or bananas just before serving.