If you are searching for a delightful treat that perfectly blends sweetness, creaminess, and a burst of fruity freshness, then this Ambrosia Salad Recipe is just what your kitchen needs. This classic dessert salad combines luscious mandarin oranges, juicy pineapple chunks, and vibrant maraschino cherries with fluffy marshmallows, shredded coconut, and a smooth, tangy dressing made from sour cream and whipped topping. Each bite is a celebration of textures and flavors that come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re prepping for a family gathering or simply craving a nostalgic, refreshing side, this Ambrosia Salad Recipe will become your new go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with four separate layers of ingredients placed side by side. On the left, there is a smooth layer of white cream. Next to it, a pile of small white mini marshmallows. To the right, a mound of finely grated light yellow cheese. The bottom half of the bowl is filled with bright red cherries and chunks of light orange fruit mixed together. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Ambrosia Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient is essential, contributing its unique flavor, texture, or color to make this salad a standout. From the juicy canned fruits to the creamy dressing and sweet marshmallows, each item plays a vital role in creating the balanced and irresistible taste you will love.

10 oz canned mandarin oranges (drained): These add a zesty citrus sweetness and vibrant orange hue that brighten up the salad.
10 oz canned pineapple chunks or tidbits (drained): Pineapple gives a tropical punch and juicy texture that pairs perfectly with the oranges.
10 oz maraschino cherries (drained): Their bright red color and sugary flavor add a fun pop and classic Ambrosia look.
1 cup mini marshmallows: Soft and fluffy, these create delightful bursts of sweetness throughout the salad.
¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut: Adds a chewy texture and a nutty-sweet flavor that complements the fruit beautifully.
½ cup sour cream: Brings a tangy richness that balances the sugary elements perfectly.
1 cup cool whip whipped topping: Lightens the salad with creamy smoothness and airy fluffiness, making it irresistibly luscious.

How to Make Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Step 1: Drain and Combine Fruits and Marshmallows

Start by carefully draining the canned mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks or tidbits, and maraschino cherries using a fine strainer. This step is crucial to keep your Ambrosia Salad Recipe from becoming too watery. Once drained, gently transfer all the fruit into a large mixing bowl. Add in the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and sour cream. These ingredients create the foundational flavor and texture layers of your salad, so mixing them evenly is important.

Step 2: Mix Gently to Preserve Fruit Integrity

Now comes a delicate part: mixing everything together. Using a gentle folding motion, carefully blend the fruit, marshmallows, coconut, and sour cream. This technique prevents the fragile mandarin oranges from breaking apart and helps keep the marshmallows from getting squished. The goal is to evenly distribute all components without losing the lovely shape and texture of your ingredients.

Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Next, take your cool whip whipped topping and fold it gently into the mixture. This creamy addition transforms your Ambrosia Salad Recipe into a light, fluffy delight that melts in your mouth. Make sure to keep the motion slow and gentle to maintain the airy texture of the whipped topping, which contrasts wonderfully with the chewy and juicy bits in the salad.

Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Meld

Once combined, cover your Ambrosia Salad and place it in the refrigerator for about one hour. This chilling step is key to letting the flavors marry, the marshmallows soften to the perfect consistency, and the overall salad reach a refreshing, cool state that tastes even better with a little time. After this, it’s ready to serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Ambrosia Salad Recipe

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a creamy layered dessert salad showing chunks of orange fruit pieces and red grapes mixed throughout, with white marshmallows scattered on top. The texture looks fluffy and smooth with the creamy layer blending with the fruit. A spoon holds a scoop of the dessert above the bowl, clearly showing the mix of orange, red, white, and cream colors all combined. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your Ambrosia Salad Recipe by topping it with a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut or a few maraschino cherry halves for a pop of color and added flair. For a subtle crunch, you might also add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. These garnishes make the dish look inviting and add layers to the texture profile.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a standalone dessert but also makes an excellent side for holiday meals, potlucks, or barbeques. Pair it alongside savory dishes like roast turkey, ham, or grilled chicken to provide a sweet contrast that refreshes the palate. It also complements creamy dips and fresh green salads beautifully for a well-rounded spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Ambrosia Salad Recipe in individual clear glass cups or hollowed-out citrus fruits to wow your guests with presentation. Layering the salad with additional fruit or even a drizzle of honey before chilling can add an extra touch of elegance. Using a trifle bowl to showcase its colorful layers is another crowd-pleaser that highlights the vibrant ingredients.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, no worries — Ambrosia Salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to blend over time, making it taste even better the next day. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to freshen up the textures.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh or chilled rather than frozen. Freezing will compromise the texture of the whipped topping, marshmallows, and fruit, causing them to become mushy upon thawing. For the best experience, avoid freezing your Ambrosia Salad Recipe.

Reheating

Since this is a cold dessert salad, reheating is not recommended. The cool, creamy texture and fresh fruit flavors are what make the Ambrosia Salad Recipe so refreshingly delicious. Always serve it chilled for the best taste and mouthfeel.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned for Ambrosia Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and cherries can be a wonderful alternative. Just make sure to drain them well and consider the natural juiciness as fresh fruits can add more moisture to the salad.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Yes. To make a vegan Ambrosia Salad Recipe, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream, and replace the cool whip with a dairy-free whipped topping. Also, double-check the marshmallows as many are not vegan by default.

How far in advance can I prepare this Ambrosia Salad?

You can prepare the salad up to a day ahead; chilling it for an hour is minimum but a night in the fridge actually enhances the flavor fusion. Just keep it tightly covered to prevent it from absorbing other odors.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Definitely! Some people like to include chopped nuts, blueberries, grapes, or even a splash of lemon juice for extra zest. The Ambrosia Salad Recipe is flexible and welcomes creativity.

What’s the best way to serve Ambrosia Salad at a party?

Serving it in small individual cups or decorative bowls makes it easy for guests to enjoy without mess. You can also pair it with a brightly colored spoon for an inviting look that matches the festive feel of this dish.

Final Thoughts

This Ambrosia Salad Recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of sweet, creamy, and fruity goodness that brings smiles every single time. Whether you’re new to this classic or revisiting it as an old favorite, I encourage you to give it a try and share the joy with your loved ones. You’ll quickly discover why this salad has remained a cherished recipe in so many homes for generations.