Ambrosia Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ambrosia Salad is quick to prepare, requires no baking, and can be made ahead of time. The combination of juicy fruit, fluffy marshmallows, creamy dressing, and coconut creates a delicious mix of flavors and textures. It’s easy to customize with your favorite fruits and nuts, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

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

• Whipped topping, thawed
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• Mini marshmallows
• Mandarin oranges, drained
• Crushed pineapple, well-drained
• Maraschino cherries, drained and halved
• Sweetened shredded coconut
• Seedless grapes, halved (optional)
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping and sour cream or Greek yogurt until smooth.
2. Fold in the mini marshmallows.
3. Add the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, and shredded coconut.
4. Stir in the grapes and chopped nuts if using.
5. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend and the marshmallows to soften.
7. Stir gently before serving and garnish with extra cherries or coconut if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8–10 people.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 2 hours
• Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Tropical Ambrosia: Add diced mango, kiwi, or papaya.
• Berry version: Mix in fresh strawberries or blueberries.
• Cream cheese style: Blend softened cream cheese into the dressing for a richer texture.
• Nut-free option: Omit the pecans or walnuts.
• Lighter version: Replace the sour cream with additional Greek yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

Store Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving if any liquid separates. Freezing is not recommended, as the whipped topping and fruit may lose their texture after thawing.

FAQs

What is Ambrosia Salad?

Ambrosia Salad is a classic American fruit salad made with whipped topping, fruit, marshmallows, coconut, and a creamy dressing.

Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?

Yes. It’s best when chilled for several hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Do I need to drain the canned fruit?

Yes. Draining the fruit thoroughly helps prevent the salad from becoming watery.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes. Stabilized homemade whipped cream is an excellent substitute for whipped topping.

Can I add fresh fruit?

Absolutely. Fresh grapes, strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and apples are delicious additions.

What nuts work best?

Pecans and walnuts are traditional, but sliced almonds also work well.

Can I make this recipe without coconut?

Yes. Simply omit the coconut if you prefer or if serving someone with a coconut allergy.

Is Ambrosia Salad gluten-free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on packaged products to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

How long does Ambrosia Salad last?

It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

What occasions is Ambrosia Salad perfect for?

It’s a popular choice for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, baby showers, picnics, barbecues, potlucks, and family reunions.

Conclusion

Ambrosia Salad is a timeless dessert that combines creamy dressing, sweet fruit, fluffy marshmallows, and coconut into a refreshing and irresistible treat. Easy to prepare and perfect for making ahead, this classic recipe is ideal for holidays, celebrations, and everyday gatherings. With its light texture and colorful presentation, it’s a dish that’s sure to bring smiles to every table.

Ambrosia Salad

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Ambrosia Salad is a classic no-bake dessert made with whipped topping, sweet fruit, marshmallows, and coconut for a light, creamy, and refreshing treat. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings, it’s a timeless favorite that’s easy to make ahead.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• Whipped topping, thawed
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• Mini marshmallows
• Mandarin oranges, drained
• Crushed pineapple, well-drained
• Maraschino cherries, drained and halved
• Sweetened shredded coconut
• Seedless grapes, halved (optional)
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Vanilla extract (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping and sour cream or Greek yogurt until smooth.
2. Fold in the mini marshmallows.
3. Add the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, and shredded coconut.
4. Stir in the grapes and chopped nuts if using.
5. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend and the marshmallows to soften.
7. Stir gently before serving and garnish with extra cherries or coconut if desired.

Notes

• Drain all canned fruit thoroughly to prevent a watery salad.
• Stabilized homemade whipped cream can be substituted for whipped topping.
• Add fresh berries, kiwi, or mango for a tropical variation.
• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Stir gently before serving if any liquid separates.
• Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change after thawing.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 240 kcal
• Sugar: 27 g
• Sodium: 120 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg