Ambrosia Salad: A Classic, Creamy, and Fruity Delight

Ambrosia Salad is a creamy, fruity, and slightly tangy dessert salad that has been a staple at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and Sunday dinners for generations. This retro dish, often associated with Southern comfort food, is sweet, fluffy, and packed with juicy fruit.

The combination of whipped cream, sour cream, soft marshmallows, and tropical fruits creates a light and refreshing treat that’s perfect as a side dish or dessert. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Easter, summer BBQs, or a cozy winter get-together, this Ambrosia Salad is always a hit!

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Light, Sweet, and Creamy – A whipped cream base makes it fluffy and refreshing.
✔️ Quick & Easy to Make – No baking required—just mix and chill!
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, picnics, and potlucks.
✔️ Customizable – Use different fruits, add nuts, or mix in yogurt for a unique twist.
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better after chilling overnight.

---

The Secret to the Best Ambrosia Salad

1. Use Freshly Whipped Cream for the Lightest Texture

For the best fluffy texture, whip your own heavy cream instead of using Cool Whip. It makes a huge difference in flavor and creaminess.

2. Let It Chill Before Serving

Chilling the salad for at least 2 hours (or overnight) allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making it even more delicious.

3. Use Drained Canned Fruit or Fresh Fruit

If using canned fruit, drain it well to avoid excess liquid. Fresh fruit adds a bright, fresh taste.

4. Mini Marshmallows Are a Must

Soft, pillowy marshmallows absorb the flavors and add a fun, sweet bite.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Whipped Cream Base:

• ¾ cup heavy cream (chilled)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Fruit Mixture:

• 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup maraschino cherries, halved and drained
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

---

How to Make Ambrosia Salad

Step 1: Make the Whipped Cream

1. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold in the sour cream until smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit & Mix

1. In another bowl, combine pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, and coconut.
2. If using pecans or walnuts, stir them in.

Step 3: Combine & Chill

1. Gently fold the fruit mixture into the whipped cream base, making sure everything is well coated.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

• Spoon into serving bowls and garnish with extra cherries, coconut, or nuts if desired.
• Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, fruity deliciousness!

---

How to Store Ambrosia Salad

🥶 Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🚫 Do Not Freeze: The whipped cream and fruit will not hold up well after freezing.

---

Fun Variations & Add-Ins

Want to put a fun spin on this classic recipe? Try these variations!

1. Tropical Ambrosia Salad 🍍🥥

• Add diced mango or kiwi for a tropical touch.
• Use coconut yogurt instead of sour cream.

2. Greek Yogurt Ambrosia (Healthier Version) 🥗

• Swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt for a protein-packed, tangy twist.
• Reduce marshmallows for less sugar.

3. Chocolate Lovers’ Ambrosia 🍫

• Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle with melted chocolate for a fun dessert version.

4. Berry Ambrosia Salad 🍓🫐

• Replace canned fruit with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.

5. Pina Colada Ambrosia 🍍🥥

• Use coconut cream instead of sour cream and add a splash of rum extract.

---

What to Serve with Ambrosia Salad

Ambrosia Salad is a great side dish or dessert for:

🍗 BBQ and Grilled Meats – A cool contrast to smoky flavors.
🍽️ Holiday Feasts – A great addition to Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas dinner.
🍰 Light Desserts – Pairs beautifully with pound cake or angel food cake.
🥂 Brunch Buffets – A perfect sweet side for brunch gatherings.

---

Final Thoughts: A Timeless Classic Everyone Loves

Ambrosia Salad is one of those nostalgic dishes that never goes out of style. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, holiday meal, or a refreshing summer treat, this sweet, creamy, and fruity salad is always a hit.

Give it a try and let me know—what’s your favorite twist on Ambrosia Salad?

Print