Description
Classic Ambrosia Salad is a delightful and refreshing fruit salad made with a creamy base of whipped topping and sour cream, mixed with pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and Maraschino cherries. This sweet, creamy salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and holiday gatherings, offering a nostalgic taste of a traditional American dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip brand)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Fruit and Mix-ins
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup Maraschino cherries, halved (plus more for garnish, if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and whipped topping until well mixed. This creates a smooth and creamy foundation for your ambrosia salad.
- Add the fruit and mix-ins: Add the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and halved Maraschino cherries to the creamy base.
- Mix ingredients gently: Gently fold all ingredients together to ensure everything is evenly coated with the creamy base without crushing the fruit.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. This chilling allows the flavors to meld together and thickens the salad for better texture.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish with extra Maraschino cherries to add a pop of color and extra sweetness. Serve chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- The salad can be made a day in advance to allow flavors to develop.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or light sour cream.
- Drain canned fruits well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
- Other fruits like grapes or chopped apples can be added for variation.
- Keep refrigerated and consume within 2 days for freshness.
