There’s something magical about a bowl of Ambrosia Salad sitting on the holiday table. I still remember my grandmother’s kitchen, the warm scent of citrus and coconut filling the air, the soft rustle of canned fruits as she stirred them together with a creamy dressing.

That first spoonful of homemade Ambrosia Salad was an explosion of textures—fluffy marshmallows, juicy fruit, and the subtle crunch of shredded coconut. Today, I want to share my classic Ambrosia Salad recipe with you, perfect for any family gathering or casual weeknight treat.

What is Ambrosia Salad?

Ambrosia Salad is a sweet, creamy fruit salad that combines tropical fruits, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut, all enveloped in a luscious dressing made of whipped cream or sour cream.

The dish has a nostalgic, almost ethereal quality, hence the name “ambrosia,” which historically refers to the food of the gods. Each bite is a medley of flavors—tangy mandarin oranges, sweet pineapple, tart cherries, and the smooth, airy texture of the dressing.

What makes it unique is the contrast between the soft, creamy elements and the slight chewiness of coconut and marshmallows, creating a sensory delight with every spoonful.

This classic Ambrosia Salad is not only visually appealing with its vibrant colors, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. The sweet, tropical flavors are perfect for summer picnics, holiday dinners, or as a light dessert anytime you want a touch of sunshine on your plate.

Equipment List

To make this easy Ambrosia Salad recipe, you don’t need a lot of specialized tools. Here’s what will make the process smooth and enjoyable:

Large mixing bowl
Spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk (if making your own whipped cream)
Small bowl for folding ingredients
Serving dish or bowl

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create a classic Ambrosia Salad. Quantities are perfect for a generous bowl serving 6–8 people:

1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 cup sour cream for a tangier version)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
Fresh citrus zest (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, folding gently to maintain a light, airy texture. This creamy base will coat all your fruits beautifully.

Step 2: Drain and Prep Fruits

Drain the canned mandarin oranges and pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in your salad. Chop the maraschino cherries into smaller pieces for easier mixing. The vibrant colors of the fruits already make the salad inviting.

Step 3: Fold in the Ingredients

Gently fold the drained fruits into the whipped cream, followed by shredded coconut and mini marshmallows. Use a spatula to fold rather than stir vigorously, preserving the fluffiness of the cream. If using nuts, fold them in last to add a pleasant crunch.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften slightly, creating that perfect texture balance that makes Ambrosia Salad irresistible.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle a little extra shredded coconut or fresh citrus zest on top for added color and aroma. Serve in a beautiful bowl and watch everyone smile as they dig into this sweet, fruity delight.

Tips for the Perfect Ambrosia Salad

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh fruits can be substituted for canned ones for a lighter, fresher taste.
Adjust sweetness: Depending on your fruit choice and preference, you can reduce or increase powdered sugar.
Nuts optional: Add pecans or walnuts for crunch, or leave them out for a nut-free version.
Make ahead: Ambrosia Salad can be made a few hours in advance and kept chilled for a quick dessert option.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Ambrosia Salad vegan?
A: Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping.

Q: Can I use fresh fruits instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Fresh pineapple, oranges, and cherries work beautifully and reduce added sugars.

Q: How long will Ambrosia Salad keep?
A: Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Marshmallows may soften over time, which is normal.

Q: Can I freeze Ambrosia Salad?
A: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the whipped cream and fruits can become watery upon thawing.

Flavor Variations to Try

Tropical Twist: Add mango, kiwi, or papaya for extra tropical flavor.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
Berry Ambrosia: Include strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful berry version.

Pairing Ideas

Serve alongside a slice of pound cake for a luxurious dessert experience.
Pair with iced tea or a light sparkling wine for summer gatherings.
Enjoy as a refreshing snack during a brunch spread.

Why Homemade Ambrosia Salad is Special

Making Ambrosia Salad at home allows you to adjust the sweetness, pick the freshest fruits, and impress your family and friends with a dish that looks as good as it tastes. The combination of creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors is simply unmatched when made with love in your own kitchen.

Final Thoughts

This classic Ambrosia Salad recipe brings together the best of tropical fruits, creamy textures, and sweet marshmallows for a dessert that is nostalgic, colorful, and absolutely delightful.

With this easy Ambrosia Salad recipe, you can recreate the magic of homemade fruit salads from your childhood, offering a sweet treat that everyone will love. So grab a large bowl, mix in your fruits, and let the creamy goodness of Ambrosia Salad brighten your table today!