Ambrosia Salad Recipe – Classic Holiday Fruit Dessert

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about this Ambrosia Salad Recipe . Just the name alone brings back cozy memories of holiday gatherings, big family dinners, and potlucks where someone always arrived with a giant bowl of something fluffy, sweet, and packed with fruit. If you grew up with this dish, then you know what I mean—it’s a staple that shows up at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, sitting proudly next to all the savory classics.

What I love most about this dish is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to make Ambrosia Salad, and there’s no fancy equipment or complicated techniques involved. It’s as easy as mix, fold, chill, and serve. And yet, it never fails to impress, especially when the flavors have had time to meld in the fridge.

In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make this classic dish from start to finish, while also sharing tips, tricks, and a few fun variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking to add something sweet to your holiday spread or just want a quick and cheerful dessert for a weeknight dinner, Ambrosia Salad is here to bring a little joy to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Ambrosia Salad Recipe

If you’ve never tried Ambrosia Salad before, you’re in for a treat. This isn’t just another fruit salad—it’s a celebration of textures, flavors, and simplicity all rolled into one. Here’s exactly why you’ll fall in love with this delightful dish:

It’s Quick and Easy

This Ambrosia Salad Recipe requires absolutely no cooking. All you have to do is drain some canned fruits, mix a few ingredients in a bowl, and let it chill in the fridge. It’s perfect for busy holiday prep or for those last-minute potluck invitations when you need something impressive but effortless.

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

Everyone from toddlers to grandparents loves Ambrosia Salad. The marshmallows add a soft chewiness that kids adore, while the creamy base and nostalgic flavors bring grown-ups back to their childhoods. It works equally well as a sweet side dish or a light dessert.

It’s Versatile

You can easily adapt this Ambrosia Salad Recipe to fit different dietary needs or preferences. Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or add in chopped nuts for crunch. You can even mix in fresh fruit like strawberries or kiwi if you want to brighten things up.

Health Benefits

Although Ambrosia Salad is a sweet dish, it still offers several surprising health perks when made mindfully. While it might not be a superfood, it can absolutely be part of a balanced meal, especially when served in moderation or adapted with healthier ingredient swaps.

Provides a Dose of Fruit-Based Nutrients

The canned mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks are not just tasty—they also come packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Mandarin oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports your immune system and skin health. Pineapples are rich in bromelain, a digestive enzyme, and also deliver a healthy dose of antioxidants.

Even maraschino cherries, though typically used in small amounts, contain some beneficial compounds like vitamin A and iron. If you opt for fresh or unsweetened fruits, you’ll get even more fiber and less added sugar.

Can Be Made Healthier with Simple Swaps

You can easily make this dish lighter and more nourishing by substituting some of the classic ingredients. Greek yogurt, for example, can replace sour cream for an extra boost of protein and probiotics. Choosing unsweetened coconut and using fewer marshmallows can also cut down on added sugar.

Additionally, using fresh fruit instead of canned options can increase fiber content and eliminate the need for syrup-based preservation, which often contains extra sugar.

Contains Probiotics from Sour Cream or Yogurt

If you go with a cultured dairy base like sour cream or Greek yogurt, you’re also introducing beneficial bacteria into your diet. These probiotics are great for gut health, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy immune response.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Knowing what to expect before diving into a recipe helps make the process smoother. Here’s everything you need to know about timing, serving size, and nutritional value when preparing this Ambrosia Salad.

Preparation Time

One of the best things about this salad is how quickly it comes together. It requires no baking, blending, or stove time—just a bit of draining and mixing.

• Active Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
• Chill Time: Minimum of 1 hour (for best results, chill for 2–4 hours or overnight)
• Total Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes (including chilling)

Servings

This Ambrosia Salad Recipe makes enough for a crowd, which is ideal for family dinners or potlucks.

• Yield: 8 to 10 servings
• Serving Size: Approximately 1/2 cup per person

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

While exact numbers can vary slightly depending on brands and ingredient choices, here’s a general breakdown:

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 60mg

Ingredients List

Ambrosia Salad Recipe doesn’t ask for much but delivers in a big way. Each ingredient brings something special to the dish—whether it’s texture, color, or flavor. Below is the complete list, along with a quick note on why each one matters.

Main Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks or tidbits, drained
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved and drained
• 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
• 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups Cool Whip (or any whipped topping), thawed

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Ambrosia Salad is as simple as mix, fold, and chill. Still, a few thoughtful steps will make all the difference in creating the best texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it right the first time.

Step 1: Drain the Canned Fruits Thoroughly

Start by draining the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries. Let them sit in a fine mesh strainer for a few minutes to release as much liquid as possible. Excess moisture can make the salad runny, so don’t skip this step.

Step 2: Halve the Cherries

Use a small knife to slice each maraschino cherry in half. It helps distribute them more evenly throughout the salad and prevents overwhelming bites of sweetness.

Step 3: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the sour cream. Then gently fold in the Cool Whip until you have a smooth, creamy base. Take your time with this to keep the mixture light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, sprinkle in the shredded coconut and mini marshmallows. Stir gently to incorporate. These will soak up some of the cream and soften over time, giving the salad a lovely texture.

Step 5: Fold in the Fruits

Add the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and halved cherries to the bowl. Use a soft spatula to fold them in carefully. The key here is to mix gently so the fruit stays intact and doesn’t break apart.

Step 6: Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least one hour, though two to four hours is better. Overnight is ideal if you have the time. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld and the cream thickens.

Step 7: Give It a Gentle Stir Before Serving

Once the salad is fully chilled, give it a light stir to fluff it up again. Then serve it cold, straight from the fridge.

 

How to Serve

Ambrosia Salad is as versatile in serving as it is in preparation. It complements both sweet and savory dishes and fits in almost any mealtime lineup.

• As a Side Dish: Pair it with classic holiday foods like roasted turkey, chicken, glazed carrots, or mashed potatoes.

• As a Light Dessert: Serve it in small dessert cups topped with a cherry or a sprinkle of coconut for an easy end to any meal.

• Brunch Buffets: Perfect for baby showers or springtime brunches alongside muffins, egg bakes, or fruit trays.

• Over Cake or Pound Cake: Spoon a generous portion over slices of pound cake for a sweet, semi-homemade treat.

• In a Parfait Glass: Layer it with granola or extra fruit for a pretty presentation.

No matter how you serve it, make sure it’s well chilled. Ambrosia Salad is best when it’s cold, creamy, and refreshing.

Pairing Suggestions

Although Ambrosia Salad is often thought of as a dessert, its sweet-and-tangy flavor profile means it can stand up well next to both sweet and savory items.

Main Dishes

• Roast Chicken or Turkey: The creaminess of the salad balances beautifully with savory, seasoned meats.
• Baked Ham or Glazed Meatloaf: The fruity notes enhance the sweetness in glazed or honey-based meat dishes.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers or Casseroles: Offers a light contrast to heavier, cheesy meals.

Side Dishes

• Green Beans Almondine: A great green side to balance the richness of the salad.
• Deviled Eggs or Potato Salad: For picnic spreads or potlucks, these work well together.
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The flavor profiles align beautifully—sweet, creamy, and smooth.

Breads and Extras

• Dinner Rolls: Light and fluffy bread helps balance the salad’s sweetness.
• Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet and crumbly, these pair particularly well with Ambrosia.

Beverages

• Iced Herbal Tea: Something like hibiscus or mint tea complements the tropical flavors without adding more sweetness.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus Slices: Light and refreshing to keep the palate clear.
• Chilled Lemonade: Pairs perfectly for summer gatherings or picnics.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Ambrosia Salad is best when enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for a few days if needed. Here’s how to make sure it stays delicious.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the salad in an airtight container or covered bowl.

• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Before serving again, give it a gentle stir to redistribute any separated liquids.

Freezing

• Freezing is not recommended.
  The whipped topping and sour cream don’t freeze well. Once thawed, the texture becomes watery and separated.

Reheating

• Do not reheat.
  Ambrosia Salad is a cold dish and should be served chilled. Reheating will ruin the texture and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ambrosia Salad is simple, but a few small missteps can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for and how to avoid them:

Not Draining the Fruit Properly

Too much liquid from the canned fruits can make the salad runny and affect the consistency. Always drain thoroughly and let the fruit sit in a strainer for several minutes.

Using Fresh Whipped Cream

While fresh whipped cream is delicious, it doesn’t hold up well in this recipe. Stick to Cool Whip or a stabilized whipped topping for the best texture and shelf life.

Overmixing the Ingredients

Be gentle when folding everything together. Overmixing can break down the fruit and turn the salad mushy. Use a soft spatula and take your time.

Pro Tips

Even with a simple recipe like Ambrosia Salad, a few pro tips can elevate it from good to unforgettable. Here’s how to make it truly shine:

Let It Chill Overnight

While one hour of chilling is the minimum, letting the salad sit overnight in the fridge gives the best results. The flavors have time to blend, and the texture becomes firmer and fluffier.

Use a Glass Serving Bowl

If you’re serving this at a party or family dinner, a glass bowl shows off the colorful fruit and creamy texture beautifully.

Toast the Coconut

For added depth of flavor, toast your shredded coconut in the oven at 325°F for about 5–7 minutes. It brings a nutty aroma and subtle crunch to the salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh fruit like mandarin oranges, pineapple, or even strawberries. Just make sure to peel, chop, and dry them thoroughly before mixing them in.

What’s the best substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great option. It adds protein, a similar tang, and a creamy consistency. Just use plain, full-fat yogurt for the closest result.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, Ambrosia Salad tastes better when made ahead. Prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight in the refrigerator for the best flavor and texture.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, most versions are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your sour cream, whipped topping, and marshmallows to be sure there are no additives containing gluten.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Ambrosia Salad isn’t just a dish—it’s a memory-maker. It’s light, sweet, creamy, and completely comforting in the best way possible. Whether you’re reviving a family tradition or trying something new, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles around your table.

What makes this Ambrosia Salad Recipe so special is its simplicity. You can pull it together with pantry staples, it requires no baking, and it’s incredibly forgiving. Plus, there are endless ways to make it your own—from swapping out ingredients to playing with textures and flavors.

If you’ve never made Ambrosia Salad before, now is the perfect time to give it a try. It’s fast, fun, and incredibly rewarding. And if it’s already a favorite in your family, consider this your updated, foolproof version that delivers every time.

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Did you try a variation? Serve it for a special occasion? Share your experience and tag your photos—I truly enjoy seeing your creations.

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