If you’re looking for a dish that combines sweetness, fluffiness, and a little bit of nostalgia, then Classic Ambrosia Salad is exactly what you need! This creamy, fruity salad is a fan favorite at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family dinners. The combination of tangy fruit, whipped cream, and marshmallows creates a refreshing and comforting dessert-like salad that’s absolutely irresistible. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, and you can make it ahead of time for convenience. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to become a staple at every celebration!

Why You’ll Love Classic Ambrosia Salad

Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to throw together. No complicated steps or fancy equipment required.
Sweet and Creamy: The rich, whipped cream and the sweetness from the fruit make each bite pure bliss.
Versatile: You can mix in your favorite fruits or adjust the sweetness depending on your preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a BBQ, a holiday dinner, or just a family gathering, this dish will be a hit with everyone.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Ambrosia salad is perfect for prepping in advance. Just chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, and you’re good to go!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this sweet, dreamy salad:

For the Salad:

Mandarin Oranges: These juicy little citrus segments add a burst of sweetness and brightness to the salad.
Pineapple: Pineapple adds a tropical twist and a nice tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Maraschino Cherries: For a pop of color and a hint of cherry flavor. Plus, they make it extra festive!
Shredded Coconut: For a bit of texture and that subtle coconut flavor that enhances the tropical vibe.
Mini Marshmallows: These soft, sweet pillows of joy are the perfect addition to the creamy texture of the salad.

For the Dressing:

Whipped Cream: For a fluffy, light base. You can use store-bought whipped cream or make your own.
Sour Cream: Just a bit of sour cream adds a tangy contrast and makes the dressing extra creamy.
Vanilla Extract: To bring a warm, sweet flavor to the dressing and round out all the flavors perfectly.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get this delicious Ambrosia Salad ready:

Prepare the Fruit: Drain the mandarin oranges, pineapple, and maraschino cherries. If you prefer, you can chop the cherries into smaller pieces. You want all the fruit to be bite-sized!
Mix the Fruit and Coconut: In a large bowl, combine the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple, maraschino cherries, and shredded coconut. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
Add the Marshmallows: Stir in the mini marshmallows, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the fruit mixture.
Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together the whipped cream, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine: Gently fold the creamy dressing into the fruit and marshmallow mixture. Be careful not to break up the fruit too much—just fold until everything is well-coated and combined.
Chill: Cover the salad and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld together beautifully, and it’ll taste even better once it’s chilled.
Serve and Enjoy: When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir and garnish with a few extra cherries or coconut flakes if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 240
Total Carbs: 31g
Fiber: 2g
Net Carbs: 29g
Fat: 12g
Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve Classic Ambrosia Salad

Ambrosia salad is super versatile and can be paired with pretty much anything. Here are a few ideas on how to serve it:

As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside your favorite savory dishes like roasted chicken or grilled meats. The sweetness of the salad makes a great contrast to richer main dishes.
As a Dessert: With its creamy texture and sweet flavors, this salad can double as a light dessert for any occasion.
Perfect for Potlucks: Because it’s so easy to make and transport, this salad is always a hit at potlucks and picnics. Just bring it chilled in a sealed container!
Garnish It: Add a few extra cherries or a sprinkle of coconut on top for that perfect finishing touch.

Additional Tips

Fruit Variations: Feel free to switch up the fruit! You can add grapes, bananas, or even diced apples to suit your taste.
Make it Lighter: If you’re looking to lighten up the salad, you can swap out the whipped cream for a lighter version or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy twist.
Store Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again.
Customize the Sweetness: If you like your Ambrosia salad on the sweeter side, add a little extra marshmallows or a drizzle of honey to taste.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
A1: Absolutely! Fresh fruit like fresh pineapple, oranges, and cherries will work just fine. Just make sure to cut and prep the fruit into bite-sized pieces.

Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A2: Yes! In fact, it’s even better when made ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Q3: Is there a way to make this Ambrosia salad dairy-free?
A3: Yes! You can substitute the whipped cream with coconut whipped cream and the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt to make it dairy-free.

Q4: Can I freeze Ambrosia Salad?
A4: I wouldn’t recommend freezing it, as the texture of the whipped cream and marshmallows may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh and chilled.

Q5: How do I make it sweeter?
A5: If you like your Ambrosia salad sweeter, you can add a bit more sugar to the dressing or mix in extra marshmallows.

Q6: Can I add nuts to this recipe?
A6: Sure! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to the salad. Just be sure to add them at the end, so they stay nice and crunchy.

Q7: Can I skip the coconut?
A7: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of coconut, feel free to leave it out. The salad will still taste amazing without it.

Q8: Can I use a different type of whipped cream?
A8: Yes! You can use store-bought whipped topping or make your own with heavy cream. It all depends on your preference.

Q9: How can I make the salad more colorful?
A9: You can add some colorful fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or grapes to give it a vibrant look.

Q10: Can I add a creamy dressing instead of whipped cream?
A10: Yes! If you want a richer texture, you can use a sweetened condensed milk base instead of the whipped cream for a thicker dressing.

Conclusion

Classic Ambrosia Salad is the perfect mix of nostalgia and indulgence. It’s a light, refreshing, and slightly sweet treat that will make any occasion feel like a celebration. With its creamy texture and fruity goodness, it’s no wonder this dish has been a favorite for years. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, potluck, or just a family dinner, this dish will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser. Go ahead—give it a try and bring a little bit of retro charm to your next meal! Happy eating!