Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Make this easy ambrosia salad recipe for a creamy, fruity, nostalgic side dish that never goes out of style! Perfect for holidays, picnics, or potlucks.
Ingredients
- Base Fruits
- 1 15-ounce can mandarin oranges, drained – Adds sweet citrus flavor and a pop of color.
- 1 20-ounce can pineapple chunks or tidbits, drained – The juicy heart of the salad.
- 1 cup maraschino cherries drained and halved – For that signature pink tint and cherry sweetness.
- Creamy Mixture
- 1 cup sour cream – Balances the sweetness with a slight tang.
- 1 cup whipped topping Cool Whip – Creates that light, fluffy texture everyone loves.
- ½ cup shredded coconut flakes – Adds tropical flavor and a bit of chew.
- 2 cups mini marshmallows – The pillowy sweetness that makes ambrosia iconic.
- Optional Garnishes
- Toasted coconut – Sprinkle on top for crunch.
- Extra cherries or pineapple tidbits – For a picture-perfect presentation.
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit
- Drain your mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, and maraschino cherries thoroughly. Too much liquid can make your salad runny. Pat them dry with paper towels if needed.
- Make the Creamy Base
- In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream and whipped topping (Cool Whip) until smooth and well combined. This forms your luscious base.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients
- Gently fold in the drained fruit, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut flakes. Stir just until everything is coated evenly in that creamy dressing.
- Chill and Set
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step allows the flavors to meld and the texture to thicken slightly.
- Serve
- Before serving, give it a gentle stir. Garnish with extra cherries or toasted coconut if desired. Serve cold and enjoy that sweet, fruity, cloud-like bite!
- Sensory cue: When you scoop it out, it should feel light, creamy, and just a little bit fluffy—like fruit suspended in a cloud.
Notes
- Drain your fruit completely to avoid a watery salad.
- Chill before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Fold gently to keep the whipped topping airy and fluffy.
- Use full-fat sour cream for the creamiest consistency.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Not freezer-friendly; enjoy within 2–3 days for the best taste.