Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Ambrosia Salad is a classic dessert that combines sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors in one delightful bowl. This no-bake treat features a medley of fruits, marshmallows, and a luscious whipped cream base, making it perfect for holidays, potlucks, or as a refreshing summer dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No cooking required, ready in minutes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A nostalgic favorite at gatherings and parties.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with your favorite fruits or mix-ins.
• Light and Refreshing: Perfectly sweet without being heavy.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better when prepared in advance.

Ingredients

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

• Mini marshmallows
• Canned pineapple chunks, drained
• Mandarin oranges, drained
• Sweetened shredded coconut
• Maraschino cherries, halved and drained
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   • Drain the pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
2. Mix the Base
   • In a large mixing bowl, fold together sour cream and whipped topping until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the Mix-Ins
   • Gently fold in the pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
4. Chill
   • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve
   • Before serving, give the salad a quick stir. Garnish with additional cherries or coconut if desired. Serve cold.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 6–8 people.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
• Tropical Twist: Mix in diced mango or papaya for extra tropical flavor.
• Healthier Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduce the amount of marshmallows.
• Berry Bliss: Add fresh blueberries or raspberries for a burst of tartness.
• Chocolate Delight: Sprinkle in mini chocolate chips for a fun variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the whipped topping and fruits may change when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Yes, fresh fruit works well. Just ensure it’s ripe and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What’s the best way to prevent the salad from getting watery?

Drain all canned fruits thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, homemade whipped cream is a delicious alternative, but it may deflate over time, so serve the salad promptly.

Is there a substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as substitutes for sour cream.

Can I leave out the coconut?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of coconut, simply omit it.

Can I use other types of marshmallows?

You can use colored mini marshmallows for a fun, festive look.

How do I keep the cherries from staining the salad?

Pat the cherries dry with paper towels before mixing them in.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check the labels on packaged ingredients like whipped topping and marshmallows.

Can I add a citrus flavor to the salad?

Yes, a splash of orange or pineapple juice can enhance the citrusy flavors.

Conclusion

Ambrosia Salad is a delightful and versatile dessert that’s easy to make and loved by all ages. Its creamy texture, sweet fruit, and fluffy marshmallows create a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it to your liking and enjoy this timeless favorite at your next gathering!

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