Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe is a nostalgic, sweet, and creamy fruit salad that brings back memories of family gatherings, holiday feasts, and summer picnics. Bursting with tropical flavors from mandarin oranges, pineapple, and shredded coconut, this salad is both simple and indulgent. Its soft, creamy texture is complemented by the chewy marshmallows and optional crunch from nuts, making it a treat for all ages. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a holiday dinner or create a refreshing dessert for a casual weeknight, this Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This recipe is easy to make, requires minimal preparation, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. In this guide, you’ll discover step-by-step instructions, expert tips, variations, storage advice, and answers to all your Ambrosia Salad questions. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to craft a creamy, fruity, and irresistible dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Timeless Flavor: Sweet and tangy tropical fruits with creamy dressing create a harmonious taste.
Easy to Make: No complicated techniques; perfect for beginners or busy cooks.
Customizable Ingredients: Add or omit nuts, cherries, or coconut according to preference.
Holiday-Friendly: A stunning addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or summer parties.
Kid-Friendly: Soft textures and sweet marshmallows make it appealing for children.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare in advance and chill overnight for enhanced flavor.
Light and Refreshing: A fruity dessert that isn’t too heavy after a large meal.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple canned fruits, marshmallows, and cream available in most kitchens.
Ingredients for Classic Ambrosia Salad
Fruit and Mix-Ins
1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
1 cup miniature marshmallows
1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened)
1 tablespoon maraschino cherries, chopped (optional)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Dressing
1 cup heavy cream (or whipped topping)
1/2 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt for a tangy alternative)
Ingredient Tips:
Mandarin Oranges & Pineapple: Drain thoroughly to avoid a watery salad. Fresh fruit works too, diced finely.
Marshmallows: Miniature marshmallows are preferred for even distribution.
Coconut: Toast lightly for deeper flavor.
Nuts: Optional but add a lovely crunch. Toasted pecans or walnuts enhance aroma.
Dressing: Heavy cream gives richness; sour cream adds a subtle tang. Yogurt is a lighter option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Drain the mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks carefully. Chop the maraschino cherries and nuts (if using) into small pieces to ensure even mixing.
2. Mix the Fruits and Marshmallows
In a large bowl, gently combine the drained oranges, pineapple, marshmallows, shredded coconut, and cherries. Stir slowly to coat everything evenly without crushing the fruit.
3. Prepare the Dressing
Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. For a tangy variation, fold in sour cream or yogurt until smooth. This combination ensures the salad is creamy without being overly sweet.
4. Combine and Stir
Fold the whipped cream mixture into the fruit mixture gradually. Add nuts last for texture. Ensure all ingredients are coated lightly but evenly for a cohesive salad.
5. Chill the Salad
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Chilling allows flavors to meld and the salad to firm up, making it perfect for serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve in individual bowls or a large serving dish. Garnish with extra cherries, coconut, or mint leaves for a festive presentation. Enjoy this sweet, creamy, and tropical Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe at your next gathering.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Ambrosia Salad
How to Make Ambrosia Salad Creamy Without Being Too Sweet
Use freshly whipped cream and avoid canned whipped toppings with stabilizers for a natural flavor. Folding in a small amount of yogurt balances sweetness and adds subtle tang.
Can I Make Ambrosia Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the salad the day before a party. Cover tightly and refrigerate. This allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing sweetness and texture.
How Long Does Ambrosia Salad Last?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Nuts may soften over time, so add them just before serving if you prefer crunch.
Variations for Dietary Preferences
Vegan: Use coconut cream and plant-based yogurt.
Sugar-Free: Substitute marshmallows with sugar-free versions or diced fresh fruits.
Low-Fat: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt and skip nuts.
Best Ways to Serve Classic Ambrosia Salad
Serve chilled in a large glass bowl for holiday tables.
Spoon into individual dessert cups for parties.
Pair with light sponge cakes or angel food cake for extra indulgence.
Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for color and aroma.
For related recipes, check: Peach Pie Cinnamon Rolls Recipe or Baileys Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle.
Nutrition Breakdown (per serving, approx. 1 cup)
Calories: 210 kcal
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugars: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 2g
Vitamin C: 60% DV
Calcium: 6% DV
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezing: Not recommended; cream may separate.
Re-serving: Stir gently before serving to recombine ingredients.
Nuts: Add freshly chopped nuts before serving to maintain crunch.
FAQs
What is Ambrosia Salad?
Ambrosia Salad is a traditional American fruit salad made with citrus fruits, pineapple, marshmallows, and a creamy dressing. It is often served at holidays or summer gatherings.
Can I make Ambrosia Salad with fresh fruit?
Absolutely! Use fresh oranges and pineapple, and dice them into small chunks. This reduces sugar content and enhances natural flavors.
How do I prevent Ambrosia Salad from becoming watery?
Drain canned fruits thoroughly and fold ingredients gently. Avoid overmixing the whipped cream and fruit mixture.
What nuts work best in Ambrosia Salad?
Pecans or walnuts are most common. Toast them lightly to enhance flavor. Almonds are a good alternative.
Can Ambrosia Salad be made vegan or dairy-free?
Yes. Use coconut cream or non-dairy whipped topping and plant-based yogurt. Use vegan marshmallows to maintain texture.
Variations
Tropical Ambrosia Salad: Add mango, papaya, or kiwi.
Holiday Classic: Incorporate red and green maraschino cherries for Christmas.
Healthy Twist: Replace marshmallows with diced apples or grapes.
Creamy Citrus Version: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to enhance citrus flavor.
Old-Fashioned Ambrosia: Stick to traditional canned fruits, coconut, and marshmallows.
Conclusion
This Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and memories. From its creamy dressing to the sweet burst of fruit and optional nut crunch, it offers a sensory experience that’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, or a refreshing summer treat. Unlock the full potential of this recipe, try the variations, and watch it become a staple in your recipe repertoire.