A classic Ambrosia Salad combines tropical pineapple, juicy mandarin oranges, creamy yogurt, fluffy marshmallows, shredded coconut, and whipped topping. This refreshing fruit medley delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors that consistently wins over crowds. Simple to prepare yet impressive in taste, it’s an ideal potluck dish or holiday side.
What’s not to love about fluffy desserts that can pass as a “salad” side dish, like this chicken salad chick classic carol chicken salad, or cucumber tomato salad we serve at any holiday?
I especially enjoy making Ambrosia Salad during springtime, especially for Easter or Mother’s Day, as the soft pastel colors add a fun, festive touch. While many salad recipes call for Cool Whip, I’ve always preferred using fresh whipped cream instead. As you might know if you’ve been following my blog, the flavor is far superior when you substitute fresh cream for the processed alternative.
How to Make Ambrosia Salad:
Prepare the Whipped Cream: Start by adding whipping cream to a large bowl or stand mixer. Beat the cream with electric beaters for 1-2 minutes until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks appear. Finally, gently fold in the yogurt.
Add the Fruit: Thoroughly drain the canned fruits, ensuring no excess liquid remains. Then, combine the fruits with the remaining ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
Chill and Serve: Fold the whipped cream mixture into the fruit mixture. Refrigerate the Ambrosia Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Make-Ahead Instructions: This classic Ambrosia Salad can be prepared several hours in advance or up to 1 day ahead. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to wait until just before serving to stir in the marshmallows.
Tips for Perfecting the Texture and Taste
To ensure your Ambrosia salad has the perfect texture, be careful not to overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can cause the fruit to break down and the whipped cream to lose its airy texture. Additionally, use freshly whipped cream for a richer flavor, and avoid canned fruits that are packed in syrup for a more natural taste. If you prefer a tangier version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the whipped cream to add creaminess with a bit of tang.
Consider trying these Fruit Salads:
- Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Tuna Salad
- Chicken Salad Chick Classic Carol Chicken Salad
- Chicken Salad Chick
Ambrosia Salad
A light and creamy tropical fruit salad made with whipped cream, coconut, and marshmallows, Ambrosia Salad is a nostalgic dessert perfect for holidays, potlucks, or spring celebrations. With a blend of sweet fruits and soft textures, it’s a classic Southern recipe that’s easy to prepare and loved by all ages.
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 8 Servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 11 oz can mandarin oranges, drained
- 8 oz can pineapple tidbits, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 1/2 cups mini fruit-flavored marshmallows
- Optional add-ins: chopped pecans, sliced bananas, chopped apples
Instructions
- Begin by adding the heavy whipping cream to a large mixing bowl or stand mixer. Use electric beaters to whip the cream for 1-2 minutes. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the yogurt.
- Drain the canned fruits thoroughly, ensuring all excess liquid is removed. Then, combine them with the remaining ingredients in a large serving bowl.
- Carefully fold the whipped cream mixture into the fruit mixture until fully combined.
- Chill the Ambrosia Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For best texture, add marshmallows just before serving if making ahead.
- Use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping for richer flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream for a tangier version.
- Vegan? Use plant-based whipped cream and yogurt, plus vegan marshmallows.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Salad, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 236kcal
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 62mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.001g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 11mg
Keywords: ambrosia salad, tropical fruit salad, Southern ambrosia recipe, marshmallow fruit salad, coconut and fruit salad, Ambrosia salad recipe for Easter
Ambrosia Salad FAQs
What Was the Original Ambrosia Salad?
The original salad was a simple mixture of citrus fruits and coconut, without the added whipped cream or marshmallows. Over time, as more ingredients became available, the dish evolved into the creamy fruit salad we know today.
How to Make Easy Ambrosia Salad?
Making an easy salad is as simple as combining canned fruits, shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, and whipped cream. You can also add yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.
What is the Difference Between Watergate Salad and Ambrosia Salad?
While both dishes are similar in texture, Watergate salad is typically made with pistachio pudding mix, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped cream. Ambrosia salad, on the other hand, focuses on tropical fruits like oranges and pineapple, along with coconut and whipped cream.
Is Sour Cream or Cool Whip Better for Ambrosia Salad?
While sour cream can be used for a tangier taste, Cool Whip is a convenient option for a lighter, fluffier texture. However, I always recommend using freshly whipped cream for the best flavor.
This guide has provided a comprehensive look at Ambrosia salad, from its fascinating history to practical tips for making and serving it. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal or just a simple gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
