Name: Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip; 1/2 cup sour cream; 3 cups mini marshmallows; 1 (15-oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained; 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple; 1 cup shredded coconut; 3/4 cup halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained; 3/4 cup toasted pecans

Introduction

Ambrosia Salad is a classic, sweet, and creamy fruit salad perfect for any gathering. With a delightful mix of marshmallows, tropical fruits, and nuts, it brings a refreshing and nostalgic touch to your table.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a colorful layered fruit salad on a white marbled surface. The base layer is creamy white, fluffy whipped topping, mixed with small white marshmallows. On top, bright yellow pineapple chunks and orange mandarin slices are scattered evenly. Mixed in are shiny red maraschino cherries with stems showing. The salad is sprinkled with small brown pecan pieces and white shredded coconut spread over all layers, adding texture. Nearby, separate clear bowls show smaller servings of the same fruit salad mix. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups Cool Whip
1/2 cup sour cream
3 cups mini marshmallows
1 (15-oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
1 cup shredded coconut
3/4 cup halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained
3/4 cup toasted pecans

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, gently combine the Cool Whip and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the mini marshmallows, mandarin oranges, chopped pineapple, shredded coconut, halved maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans to the bowl. Stir carefully to mix all ingredients without crushing the fruit.
Step 3: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. It can be kept overnight for best results.

Tips & Variations

For added texture, substitute toasted walnuts or almonds for the pecans.
Use fresh fruit like orange segments or mango instead of canned for a fresher taste.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of marshmallows or omit the cherries.
Adding a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors and prevent fruit browning.

Storage

Store Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving if the ingredients have settled. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the marshmallows and fruit will change.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a creamy fruit salad that has about three distinct layers. The base layer is made of chunky pineapple pieces in pale yellow with some red grapes and orange segments mixed in. Above that is a thick layer of soft, white whipped cream that looks fluffy and smooth. Scattered throughout the creamy layer are visible bits of diced fruit creating colorful specks of red, orange, and yellow. On top, several bright red maraschino cherries are placed, along with a couple of larger pineapple chunks, adding a glossy and vibrant finish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually best when made at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. It can be stored in the refrigerator overnight without any problem.

What can I use if I don’t have Cool Whip?

You can substitute with homemade whipped cream or use a combination of whipped cream and Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but the texture will be slightly different.

Ambrosia Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 110 reviews

Ambrosia Salad is a classic American fruit salad known for its sweet, creamy texture and tropical flavors. Combining whipped topping, sour cream, mini marshmallows, mandarin oranges, pineapple, coconut, maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans, this refreshing dessert is perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a light, sweet treat chilled to perfection.

Author: Cleo
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

1 1/2 cups Cool Whip
1/2 cup sour cream

Fruit and Mix-ins

3 cups mini marshmallows
1 (15-oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
1 cup shredded coconut
3/4 cup halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained
3/4 cup toasted pecans

Instructions

Combine Dressing: In a large bowl, gently mix together the Cool Whip and sour cream until smooth and well blended, creating a creamy base for the salad.
Add Ingredients: Fold in the mini marshmallows, drained mandarin oranges, chopped fresh pineapple, shredded coconut, halved maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans carefully to preserve the fruit and nuts’ texture.
Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the Ambrosia Salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the salad to chill thoroughly. It can be refrigerated overnight for enhanced flavor and texture.

Notes

For best texture, use fresh pineapple and ensure canned mandarin oranges and cherries are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
To toast pecans, heat a dry skillet over medium heat and stir pecans for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and golden, then cool before adding.
The salad tastes best when chilled for several hours but can be served within one hour if needed.
Optional: Add a splash of pineapple juice or orange juice for a tangier flavor.
Leftovers should be stored covered in the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Keywords: Ambrosia Salad, fruit salad, marshmallow salad, easy dessert, holiday salad, creamy fruit salad, potluck recipes