If you have a sweet tooth and love a burst of tropical flavors in a creamy, dreamy texture, then you are going to absolutely adore this Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe. This timeless fruit salad is a nostalgic favorite for many and for good reason. It’s a perfect balance of citrusy mandarin oranges, juicy pineapple tidbits, fluffy marshmallows, luscious coconut, and cheerful maraschino cherries all folded into a fluffy, vanilla-kissed creamy base. It’s a refreshing, light dessert or side dish that brings a touch of sunshine to any table and evokes warm memories of family gatherings and simple pleasures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients, yet each one plays a crucial role to create the perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. The combination is quick to prepare but still impressive and satisfying.
- Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess to balance the sweetness and keep the salad light.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to the creamy base.
- Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip): Gives the salad a fluffy, cloud-like texture that everyone loves.
- Mandarin oranges (canned, drained): Bursting with juicy citrus flavor and a pretty pop of color.
- Pineapple tidbits (canned, drained): Sweet and tangy, these add a tropical flair and moisture.
- Mini marshmallows: Provide fun chewiness and a nostalgic sweetness that sets this salad apart.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds a lovely chewy texture and a delicate tropical scent.
- Maraschino cherries (drained): For vibrant color spots and a sugary cherry finish.
How to Make Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Step 1: Create the Creamy Base
Start by combining the sour cream and vanilla extract in a large bowl, mixing them until smooth and well blended. This creamy base is what holds all the different flavors together, so take a moment to get it nicely combined before moving forward. Then gently fold in the whipped topping, which makes the salad light and airy.
Step 2: Fold in the Fruit and Extras
Now comes the fun part: adding in the bright, colorful ingredients. Carefully fold in the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries. Using a spatula helps keep the whipped texture intact while mixing everything evenly. You’ll already want to dig in at this point, but I recommend letting it chill for a few hours to let the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra pizzazz, consider garnishing the salad with a few whole maraschino cherries on top, a sprinkle of shredded coconut, or even a zest of fresh orange peel. These simple garnishes make the presentation pop and add enticing aroma just before serving.
Side Dishes
Classic Ambrosia Salad pairs wonderfully with picnic or barbecue favorites. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, ham, or ribs to add a sweet, refreshing counterbalance. It’s also a spectacular addition to holiday meals or potlucks where a light, fruity dessert is welcome.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to jazz it up? Serve the salad in individual clear glass cups or hollowed-out oranges for a festive touch. You can also layer it with granola or crushed nuts for added crunch, or spoon it onto a bed of fresh greens for a creative fruit salad twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because the whipped topping and fresh fruit can separate and become watery once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh and refrigerated rather than frozen.
Reheating
Since Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe is meant to be served chilled, reheating is not recommended. It’s best enjoyed cold to maintain its refreshing, creamy texture and vibrant fruit flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh mandarin segments and chopped pineapple would make a lovely substitution. Just be sure to drain any excess juice to keep the salad from becoming too watery.
Is there a sugar substitute for this recipe?
The sweetness mainly comes from the canned fruit, marshmallows, and whipped topping, so you could reduce added sugars by choosing no-sugar-added canned fruit. However, omitting marshmallows or using sugar-free versions might alter the flavor and texture.
Can I make this salad vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Use a coconut-based sour cream and a dairy-free whipped topping alternative. Also, be sure the marshmallows and cherries you choose are vegan-friendly to keep things plant-based.
How far in advance can I make the salad?
This Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and chill it in the fridge to let the flavors blend and the texture settle perfectly.
Why does my ambrosia salad sometimes get watery?
Watery ambrosia often happens when fruit juices are not well-drained or when the salad sits too long. Be sure to drain canned fruits thoroughly and store the salad covered in the refrigerator. Serving within a few days is best for the ideal texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe that feels like a warm hug from the past but still shines bright today. It’s easy to make, colorful, and utterly delicious — the kind of dish that brings people together and creates happy memories. Give it a try next time you want a sweet treat that’s refreshingly light yet packed with joyful flavors. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Ambrosia Salad is a delightful, creamy fruit salad that combines mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries in a sweet and tangy sour cream and whipped topping dressing. This nostalgic dessert is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday celebrations and can be served chilled for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed until easily spreadable
Fruit and Mix-ins
- 1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 (8 ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
Instructions
- Combine Dressing: In a large bowl, add the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix together until smooth and well blended. Then, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping to create a light, creamy dressing.
- Add Fruit and Mix-ins: Carefully fold in the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries using a spatula, ensuring the ingredients are evenly coated without crushing the fruit.
- Chill and Serve: Although you can serve the salad immediately, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours. Chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully and the salad to firm up, enhancing its texture and taste before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain canned fruits thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
- For best texture, fold gently to preserve the fruit shape and marshmallows.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Use full-fat sour cream for creamier texture, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.
- Optional: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
