Classic Ambrosia Salad is the kind of nostalgic comfort food that transports you straight to family gatherings and sunny picnics with every creamy, dreamy spoonful. This no-cook, mix-and-serve dessert salad brings together fluffy whipped topping, tangy sour cream, sweet shredded coconut, vibrant maraschino cherries, juicy pineapple, mandarin oranges, crunchy pecans, and pillowy marshmallows for a treat that’s both luscious and delightfully easy. Whether you’re making it for a holiday spread or a simple get-together, you’ll love how these flavors and textures mingle perfectly into an irresistible classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Ambrosia Salad shines thanks to simple, colorful ingredients that each play a delicious role in the final dish. From the tartness of pineapple to the airy sweetness of marshmallows and the rich crunch of pecans, nothing here is extra—every item adds something special.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds just a touch of tang, balancing the sweetness and lending creamy richness.
- 1 cup whipped topping: Makes the salad light, airy, and irresistibly smooth.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and helps unify the creamy base without any grit.
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks, drained: Brings a juicy, tangy brightness that pops in every bite.
- 1 can (15 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained: Adds citrusy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows: A classic ambrosia salad essential for fluffiness and playful sweetness.
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut: Gives the salad a chewy texture and a tropical twist.
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved and drained: Gorgeous pops of red and a sweet, fruity finish.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Delicious crunch if you love a nutty accent, but you can leave them out for a nut-free version.
How to Make Classic Ambrosia Salad
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, whipped topping, and powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture is silky-smooth and all the powdered sugar is fully incorporated. This creamy base is what makes Classic Ambrosia Salad so decadent and perfectly balanced—you want it to be dreamy and lump-free.
Step 2: Fold in the Fruit and Coconut
Add the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, sweetened shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries to your creamy base. Fold everything together gently, making sure not to crush the fruit. The goal here is to evenly distribute the colors and flavors without losing those lovely chunks you’ll appreciate with every bite.
Step 3: Add Marshmallows and Nuts
Stir in the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans (if using). The marshmallows provide fluffiness and that signature ambrosia texture, while pecans offer a satisfying crunch and richness. Gently fold until every ingredient is enrobed in the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer your Classic Ambrosia Salad to a lidded container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time not only gives the flavors a chance to meld but also lets the marshmallows soak up the creamy goodness, making every spoonful even more luscious.
How to Serve Classic Ambrosia Salad
Garnishes
For the prettiest presentation, sprinkle a handful of extra maraschino cherry halves or a pinch of shredded coconut on top just before serving. A few chopped pecans or even a curl of orange zest add a festive, inviting look and a little extra flavor burst.
Side Dishes
Classic Ambrosia Salad pairs beautifully with a spread of other fresh fruit, a platter of buttery cookies, or next to a savory baked ham at family gatherings. Its sweet and creamy notes complement most holiday and picnic staples—think potato salad, deviled eggs, and those beloved retro casseroles.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in individual parfait glasses or vintage dessert cups for a fun, throwback vibe. For parties, try layering Classic Ambrosia Salad in a trifle dish to showcase its beautiful colors. You can even spoon it onto lettuce leaves or hollowed orange halves for a fresh, whimsical twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Classic Ambrosia Salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for about 2 days, but it’s truly at its best within the first 24 hours. If the salad looks a bit watery after sitting, just give it a gentle stir before serving.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for Classic Ambrosia Salad, as the creamy ingredients and fruits tend to separate and become watery when thawed. The texture of marshmallows and coconut also suffers, so it’s best to make just enough to enjoy over a couple of days.
Reheating
Classic Ambrosia Salad is meant to be enjoyed chilled—no reheating required! If it’s been in the fridge a while, simply give it a gentle stir to re-incorporate any ingredients that may have settled. Serve directly from the refrigerator for the creamiest, most refreshing bite.
FAQs
How can I make Classic Ambrosia Salad lighter?
For a lighter variation, swap the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt and use a light, reduced-sugar whipped topping. You can also scale back the powdered sugar or add extra fruit like grapes or apples for a fresher feel.
What fruits can I substitute or add?
Feel free to get creative! Green or red grapes (halved), diced apples, or even a handful of blueberries fit right in without overpowering the classic vibe. Just be sure to drain or pat all fruits dry to keep the salad from getting watery.
Can I make Classic Ambrosia Salad nut-free?
Absolutely—you can simply omit the pecans. The salad is just as creamy, sweet, and satisfying without nuts, so it’s easy to tailor for allergies or preferences.
Why do I need to chill the salad before serving?
Chilling allows all the flavors to meld together and the marshmallows to soften as they soak in the creamy dressing. This step is what turns the mixture into Classic Ambrosia Salad rather than just a mixed fruit bowl—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
How far in advance can I prepare Classic Ambrosia Salad?
It’s ideal to make the salad about 2 to 24 hours ahead of serving. If you need to prep further in advance, wait to add the marshmallows and nuts until just a couple hours before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Give Classic Ambrosia Salad a try the next time you want to bring a little vintage charm and a lot of creamy fruit delight to your table. Its blend of tangy, sweet, and perfectly fluffy textures just might make it your new favorite, too—don’t be surprised if it disappears in record time!
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Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert, Salad
- Method: No-Cook, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and classic ambrosia salad featuring a creamy, fruity mix of pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, coconut, cherries, and pecans, all tossed in a sweetened sour cream and whipped topping dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Fruit and Mix-ins:
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved and drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, stir together sour cream, whipped topping, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gently fold in pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, coconut, cherries, and pecans if using.
- Mix until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to blend.
- Serve chilled.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
- You can also add grapes or diced apples for extra fruit flavor.
- Best served within 24 hours for the freshest taste.
