Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Creamy, fluffy, and loaded with sweet fruit, this Ambrosia Salad Recipe is a classic dessert salad perfect for holidays, potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. Made with juicy pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, coconut, and a creamy whipped dressing, this old-fashioned favorite comes together in minutes and tastes even better after chilling.

What Is Ambrosia Salad?

Ambrosia salad is a traditional American fruit salad that combines fruit, mini marshmallows, coconut, and a creamy dressing. Popular in the Southern United States, it is often served during holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, but it also makes a refreshing summer dessert.

The combination of sweet fruit and fluffy cream creates a light, refreshing, and nostalgic dish that everyone loves.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy no-bake dessert
• Ready in just minutes
• Perfect for make-ahead gatherings
• Creamy, sweet, and refreshing
• Great for holidays and potlucks
• Easily customizable with your favorite fruits

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 can pineapple tidbits, drained
• 1 can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved

For the Creamy Dressing

• 1 cup whipped topping
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Drain the Fruit

Drain the pineapple and mandarin oranges very well. Excess liquid can make the salad watery. Pat the cherries dry using paper towels if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine whipped topping, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapes, cherries, marshmallows, and shredded coconut into the bowl. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the flavors blend and gives the marshmallows a softer texture.

Step 5: Serve

Serve chilled and garnish with extra cherries or coconut if desired.

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Tips for the Best Ambrosia Salad

• Drain canned fruit completely before mixing.
• Chill before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• Use fresh whipped cream for a richer taste.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Fresh strawberries or bananas can be added for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

Tropical Version

Add diced mango and toasted coconut for a tropical twist.

Lighter Version

Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and use light whipped topping.

Holiday Version

Add pomegranate seeds and extra cherries for a festive holiday look.

What to Serve With Ambrosia Salad

This creamy fruit salad pairs well with:

• Holiday dinners
• BBQ cookouts
• Easter brunch
• Potluck parties
• Summer picnics
• Thanksgiving meals

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Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again.

Nutritional Information

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.