Ambrosia Salad – A Classic Creamy Fruit Salad Delight

If there’s one dessert salad that brings a touch of nostalgia and sunshine to any table, it’s Ambrosia Salad. This sweet, creamy, and fruity classic has been loved for generations — the kind of dish that shows up at potlucks, picnics, and holiday tables, bringing smiles every time.

Made with juicy mandarin oranges, pineapple, coconut, and marshmallows, all tossed in a dreamy whipped cream dressing, Ambrosia Salad is the perfect balance of refreshing and indulgent. It’s quick, easy, and requires no cooking — just a few simple ingredients and a good stir!

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🥥 What Is Ambrosia Salad?

“Ambrosia” comes from Greek mythology, meaning “food of the gods” — and this salad truly lives up to its name. It first became popular in the American South in the late 1800s and quickly spread nationwide as a beloved vintage dessert.

Today, there are many versions — some use whipped topping, others sour cream or yogurt, and some even add cherries or nuts for extra flair. No matter how you make it, Ambrosia Salad remains a timeless, creamy fruit salad that never goes out of style.

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🍍 Why You’ll Love This Ambrosia Salad

• 🌴 No-bake and ready in minutes – perfect for busy days.
• 🍊 Fresh and fruity flavor – a refreshing twist on dessert.
• 🥥 Crowd favorite – ideal for potlucks, BBQs, and holidays.
• 🍒 Customizable – add your favorite fruits or nuts.

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🍧 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this creamy classic:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup sour cream or whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
• 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
• 1½ cups mini marshmallows
• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut

Optional Add-ins (for extra flavor):

• ½ cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
• 1 banana, sliced (add just before serving to prevent browning)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, add your sour cream or whipped topping. This forms the creamy base that ties everything together.

If you like your salad sweeter, use whipped topping; if you prefer a tangy balance, go with sour cream or a 50/50 mix of both.

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Step 2: Add the Fruits

Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and any other fruit you’re using (like grapes or cherries).

Be careful not to overmix — you want the fruit pieces to stay whole and juicy.

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Step 3: Add Coconut and Marshmallows

Stir in shredded coconut and mini marshmallows. These two ingredients give the salad its classic texture — soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet.

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Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the marshmallows to soften slightly, creating that signature creamy consistency.

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Step 5: Garnish (Optional)

Before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of shredded coconut, a few cherries on top, or a dusting of chopped pecans for a picture-perfect finish.

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🍒 Variations to Try

There’s no one “right” way to make Ambrosia Salad — here are a few fun twists:

• Classic Southern Style: Use sour cream instead of whipped topping for a tangy flavor.
• Tropical Ambrosia: Add diced mango, kiwi, or papaya for a beachy twist.
• Yogurt Version: Substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed version.
• Holiday Version: Mix in red and green cherries for festive Christmas colors.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Ambrosia Salad is a versatile dish that fits any occasion:

• Serve as a side dish at holiday dinners or BBQs.
• Enjoy it as a light dessert after a hearty meal.
• Add it to your Easter or Thanksgiving buffet spread.
• Spoon it into small dessert cups for a cute, individual presentation.

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Avoid Freezing: The creamy dressing and fruit don’t freeze well — the texture changes once thawed.
• Stir Before Serving: Give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.

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💡 Tips for the Perfect Ambrosia Salad

1. Drain your fruit well – too much juice can make the salad runny.
2. Chill thoroughly – cold Ambrosia tastes best and holds together better.
3. Add bananas last – they brown quickly, so mix them in just before serving.
4. Use fresh fruit for a modern twist – swap canned pineapple for fresh chunks.
5. Balance the sweetness – if it’s too sweet, add a touch of plain yogurt or extra sour cream.

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🥰 Why It’s a Must-Try Recipe

There’s something beautifully simple about Ambrosia Salad — it’s not fancy, yet it feels special. It brings together tropical flavors, creamy texture, and a touch of nostalgia in every bite.

Whether you’re reviving Grandma’s recipe or trying it for the first time, this salad is sure to bring joy and warmth to your table. One spoonful and you’ll understand why it’s been a favorite for over a century!

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📋 Quick Summary

Feature	Description
Prep Time	10 minutes
Chill Time	2 hours
Total Time	2 hours 10 minutes
Servings	6–8 servings
Difficulty	Easy – No Bake!

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🍊 Final Thoughts

This Ambrosia Salad is the ultimate creamy fruit dessert — simple, refreshing, and timeless. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, a family reunion, or a cozy holiday meal.

Bring back a touch of vintage charm to your table and treat yourself to the “food of the gods” — a spoonful of creamy, fruity bliss that’s truly unforgettable. 🍍✨

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