Classic Ambrosia Salad – Creamy, Fruity & Irresistible!

This Ambrosia Salad is a creamy, fruity, and nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings! Packed with juicy pineapple, sweet mandarin oranges, coconut, mini marshmallows, and a luscious whipped cream dressing, this no-bake dish is light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a dessert, this classic ambrosia recipe is always a crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients for Ambrosia Salad

• 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip (or 1 ½ cups homemade whipped cream)
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed or chunk pineapple, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• ½ cup maraschino cherries, halved
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for extra flavor

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Strainer (for draining canned fruit)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine Cool Whip and sour cream.
2. Stir until smooth and well combined.

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2. Fold in the Fruits & Coconut

1. Gently fold in pineapple, mandarin oranges, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows.
2. Add maraschino cherries (be sure to pat them dry to prevent color bleeding).
3. If using, fold in chopped nuts for crunch.

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3. Chill & Serve

1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
2. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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Expert Tips for the Best Ambrosia Salad

Drain the fruit well – Excess liquid can make the salad watery.
Chill before serving – This helps the flavors blend and makes the texture perfect.
Use fresh whipped cream – Swap Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream for a richer flavor.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the chilling step – The salad needs time to thicken and develop flavor.
Using too much liquid – Always drain canned fruits thoroughly.
Overmixing – Stir gently to keep the fruit intact.

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Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Garnish with extra cherries, coconut flakes, or chopped nuts for a decorative touch.
• Serve in small dessert cups or parfait glasses for an elegant presentation.
• Pair with vanilla wafers or graham crackers for extra crunch.

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How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Not recommended, as the creamy dressing may separate.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make it healthier – Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Make it dairy-free – Use coconut whipped cream and dairy-free yogurt.
• Add bananas – Stir in sliced bananas right before serving to avoid browning.

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What to Serve with Ambrosia Salad

• Grilled chicken or BBQ ribs for a sweet contrast
• A summer picnic spread with sandwiches and fresh fruit
• As a light dessert after a hearty meal

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make ambrosia salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge. Make it up to 24 hours in advance.

Why is my salad too runny?

This happens if the fruit isn’t drained properly. Be sure to pat them dry with paper towels if needed.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple, oranges, and grapes work beautifully in this recipe.

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Conclusion

This Ambrosia Salad is a sweet, creamy, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion! With simple ingredients and no baking required, it’s a must-have recipe for potlucks, BBQs, and holiday tables.

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more classic and easy recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 250 kcal per serving (based on 8 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves: 8

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