Ambrosia Salad is a delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors that feels like a celebration in every bite. With juicy pineapple, vibrant mandarin oranges, and chewy coconut, this dish offers a medley of textures that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, it’s a nostalgic treat that takes just 15 minutes to prepare and an hour to chill, making it as easy as it is delicious.
This crowd-pleasing dessert salad is a feast for the senses, with its fluffy marshmallows and rich whipped cream creating a luscious, cloud-like consistency. Packed with vitamin C and a hint of tropical flair, it’s a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a dessert, Ambrosia Salad is sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds.
Ingredients for Ambrosia Salad
- ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream
- ¼ cup (35 g) powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 g) sour cream
- 11 oz (312 g) can mandarin oranges (well drained)
- 10 oz (¾ cup) maraschino cherries (well drained and without stems)
- 1 (8 oz) can pineapple tidbits (well drained)
- 1 ½ cups (120 g) sweetened shredded coconut
- 4 cups (200 g) mini marshmallows (see note)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat until the mixture is thick, billowy, and resembles the consistency of Cool Whip.
- Use a spatula to gently fold in the sour cream until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, pineapple tidbits, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows.
- Add the whipped cream and sour cream mixture to the fruit mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly combined.
- Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Ambrosia Salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Serve it as a refreshing side at a summer barbecue alongside grilled chicken or burgers. It also makes a delightful dessert after a hearty holiday meal, complementing dishes like ham or turkey. For a brunch twist, try it with pancakes or waffles for a sweet and creamy addition.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Tips
Store your Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even more delicious over time. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream and marshmallows may change. If the salad becomes watery after chilling, simply give it a gentle stir before serving.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Customize your Ambrosia Salad to suit your taste! Swap out the mandarin oranges for fresh orange segments or add a handful of chopped pecans for a crunchy twist. For a tropical vibe, include diced mango or kiwi. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use whipped coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks
To save time, use pre-whipped cream or a whipped topping like Cool Whip instead of making your own. You can also prep the fruit mixture the night before and fold in the whipped cream just before serving. For an even quicker assembly, opt for pre-drained canned fruit to skip the draining step altogether.
Essential Tools: Equipment Guidance
An electric mixer is key for achieving the perfect whipped cream consistency. A large mixing bowl ensures you have enough space to fold in all the ingredients without making a mess. A rubber spatula is ideal for gently combining the whipped cream with the fruit mixture, keeping everything light and fluffy.
Ambrosia Salad
Ingredients
- ¾ cups heavy cream 180 ml
- ¼ cup powdered sugar 35 g
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream 120 g
- 11 oz can mandarin oranges 312 g, well drained
- 10 oz maraschino cherries ¾ cup, well drained and without stems
- 1 8 oz can pineapple tidbits well drained
- 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut 120 g
- 4 cups mini marshmallows 200 g, see note
Instructions
- Combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat until mixture is thick, billowy, and the consistency of Cool Whip.
- Use a spatula to fold in sour cream until completely combined.
- In a separate bowl, stir together oranges, cherries, pineapple, coconut, and mini marshmallows.
- Add whipped cream/sour cream mixture and stir until completely combined.
- Cover bowl and chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.