Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Classic Ambrosia Salad is the kind of recipe that brings a burst of sunshine to any table—sweet, creamy, and dotted with bright fruit and pillowy marshmallows. It’s nostalgic comfort and happy celebration, all in a single delightful spoonful.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Classic Ambrosia Salad shines brightest with just a handful of essential ingredients. Each one brings something special: creamy richness, a chewy twang, a burst of citrus, or a playful sweetness—don’t swap them out unless you need a twist!

• Whipped topping (8 oz, thawed): The fluffy base that gives the salad its signature light, creamy texture. Cool Whip works wonderfully!
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle tang, balancing out all that sweet, fruity goodness.
• Pineapple chunks (1 can, 20 oz, drained): Juicy, tropical bites that soak up the creamy dressing beautifully.
• Mandarin oranges (1 can, 11 oz, drained): These little gems add a pop of brightness and color.
• Mini marshmallows (1 cup): Classic Ambrosia Salad simply isn’t complete without that soft, pillowy marshmallow touch!
• Sweetened shredded coconut (1 cup): For tropical chewiness and a light, sweet crunch.
• Maraschino cherries (1/4 cup, halved, plus more for garnish): Their vibrant color and candy-sweet flavor make every serving feel extra festive.

Variations

One of the most delightful things about Classic Ambrosia Salad is how easily you can give it your own personal spin. Don’t be afraid to swap in new fruits, skip the coconut, or adjust for dietary needs—make it yours!

• Add Nuts: Stir in some toasted pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunchy contrast.
• Lighten It Up: Use light whipped topping and low-fat sour cream for a less indulgent version—still delicious.
• Fruit Swaps: Try using fresh strawberries, grapes, or blueberries in place of some canned fruit for extra freshness.
• Go Coconut-Free: If coconut’s not your thing, simply leave it out or substitute with a sprinkle of slivered almonds.

How to Make Classic Ambrosia Salad

Step 1: Make the Creamy Base

Start by adding the thawed whipped topping and sour cream to a large mixing bowl. Gently fold these together until they’re velvety smooth and fully combined—you want a luscious, cloudlike base to soak up all that fruity goodness.

Step 2: Add the Fruits and Marshmallows

Toss in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and halved maraschino cherries. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients in—taking care not to break up the fruit—until every bite is evenly coated in the creamy dressing.

Step 3: Chill (the Hardest Part!)

Cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—or, even better, overnight. This helps all the flavors mingle, and gives the marshmallows time to get perfectly puffy and soft. The wait is worth it!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

When it’s time to serve, give the salad a gentle stir, then transfer it to your prettiest bowl. Scatter extra maraschino cherries over the top for a pop of color and a little extra nostalgia. Dig in!

How to Serve Classic Ambrosia Salad

Garnishes

Lean into the retro charm with a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut and a flourish of bright maraschino cherries on top. If you’re feeling fancy, a little zest of orange or lemon adds a fresh, citrusy aroma that feels extra special.

Side Dishes

Classic Ambrosia Salad pairs beautifully alongside a holiday ham, hearty casseroles, or grilled chicken at a summer picnic. Its sweetness and light texture offer a delightful contrast to savory mains, making it the perfect “unexpected” side for potlucks and gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon your Classic Ambrosia Salad into little parfait glasses or vintage dessert cups for an elegant twist. Or, serve it family-style in a big, clear bowl so those colorful fruit pieces shine through—either way, it’s sure to get noticed!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Classic Ambrosia Salad will keep beautifully—just scoop it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors may get even more delicious as they meld together!

Freezing

This salad isn’t a great candidate for freezing, since the creamy dressing and fruits can turn watery or grainy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.

Reheating

No need to reheat—Classic Ambrosia Salad should be served chilled straight from the fridge! If it’s been sitting out, just give it a gentle stir before serving again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

It’s impossible not to smile when Classic Ambrosia Salad makes an appearance—there’s just something magical about its cloud-like creaminess, pops of fruit, and playful retro vibe. Gather your ingredients, mix up a bowl, and share it with your favorite people. I promise, every spoonful tastes like happiness!

Print