Classic Ambrosia Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Ambrosia Salad is a creamy, sweet, and refreshing dessert that combines fruit, marshmallows, and whipped cream. This nostalgic dish is a staple at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family celebrations. Its light texture and vibrant combination of fruits make it a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and delightful to eat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Canned pineapple (drained)
• Canned mandarin oranges (drained)
• Maraschino cherries (drained and halved)
• Mini marshmallows
• Shredded coconut (sweetened)
• Sour cream
• Whipped topping (or heavy whipping cream)

directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, marshmallows, and shredded coconut.
2. In a separate bowl, fold together the sour cream and whipped topping until smooth.
3. Gently fold the sour cream mixture into the fruit and marshmallow mixture until everything is evenly coated.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Refrigeration time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
• Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Use fresh fruit instead of canned for a more natural flavor.
• Add a splash of orange juice to enhance the citrus notes.
• Use a mix of different colored marshmallows for a fun twist.

storage/reheating

Store Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze as it may alter the texture of the ingredients, particularly the whipped topping.

FAQs

Can I make Ambrosia Salad in advance?
Yes, Ambrosia Salad is best made ahead of time and refrigerated for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to combine.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh fruit like fresh pineapple, fresh mandarin oranges, and fresh cherries, but keep in mind that canned fruits provide a juicier texture.

Can I use regular whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Absolutely, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping, though it might be a bit less stable.

Is Ambrosia Salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian-friendly.

How can I make this dish healthier?
You can reduce the sugar content by using unsweetened coconut, opting for low-fat or non-fat whipped topping, or swapping the marshmallows for a healthier alternative.

Conclusion

Classic Ambrosia Salad is a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that brings together sweet fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and creamy goodness. It’s the perfect dish to bring to gatherings and family events, offering a light, refreshing treat that everyone can enjoy. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this retro salad remains a favorite.

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