If you are looking for a refreshing, nostalgic, and utterly delightful dish to brighten up your day or your next gathering, the Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe is your go-to! This classic southern favorite combines a luscious whipped cream base with vibrant fruits and mini marshmallows to create a creamy, sweet, and textured salad that’s simply irresistible. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug from childhood but also brings a fresh, fruity twist to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert, a side, or just a sweet snack, this Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe never fails to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe is straightforward, and each component truly shines in bringing balance and flavor. They’re simple staples that come together to create a dish rich in texture, creaminess, and just the right amount of fruity sweetness.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: The foundation of the salad’s creamy texture, giving it that indulgent softness.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream subtly without any graininess, blending smoothly.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and lightness, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut: Provides a delightful chewy texture and tropical flavor wave.
- 11 ounce can mandarin oranges, drained: Juicy and sweet, these add bright citrus notes and color.
- 8 ounce can pineapple tidbits, drained: Offers natural sweetness and a tropical punch.
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained: Brings bursts of fruity color and sweetness that pop with every bite.
- 1 1/2 cups mini fruit-flavored marshmallows: Adds chewiness and a playful texture kids and adults adore alike.
- Optional add-ins: Chopped pecans for crunch, sliced bananas for creaminess, or chopped apples for crispness and freshness.
How to Make Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Cream Mixture
The magic starts by turning heavy whipping cream into fluffy clouds. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the cream for about 1 to 2 minutes until it just begins to thicken. Slowly sprinkle in the powdered sugar while continuing to beat until you see beautiful stiff peaks. Then, gently fold in the Greek yogurt, which lightens the mixture and lends a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness wonderfully. This creamy blend is what carries all the fruits and adds that luscious, silky finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruits and Mix
Drain your canned mandarin oranges and pineapple tidbits carefully to avoid watering down the salad. Then, in a large serving bowl, combine these juicy fruits with shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and those irresistible mini marshmallows. This combination balances sweet, tangy, chewy, and juicy elements—each bite brings a delightful surprise. You can toss in any of the optional add-ins too, like pecans for crunch or sliced bananas for an extra creamy note.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Now, gently fold your whipped cream and yogurt mixture into the bowl of fruits. Folding carefully ensures all those vibrant pieces stay whole and the salad remains airy. Once combined, cover and chill the Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and lets the salad thicken slightly, making it perfect for serving.
How to Serve Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To spruce things up, add a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut or delicately place a few maraschino cherries on top just before serving. A few toasted pecans scattered over the salad can add a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness, making every spoonful exciting and elegant.
Side Dishes
This Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe works wonders alongside savory barbecue dishes or holiday roasts. It also pairs fantastically with light sandwiches or picnics, providing a sweet, refreshing note that complements salty and smoky flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the salad in individual glass cups layered with extra fruit and marshmallows for visual appeal. Alternatively, hollow out an orange or pineapple half and use it as a natural, eye-catching bowl that elevates your presentation and makes each serving feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the marshmallows might soften a bit over time, but the flavors will remain just as delightful.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is generally not recommended because the whipped cream and fresh fruits can develop an unpleasant texture after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days when chilled.
Reheating
This Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe is served chilled, so reheating is not necessary or advised. Keep it cold in the refrigerator until ready to serve for the best taste and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned in the Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh mandarins, pineapples, and cherries work wonderfully and add an extra burst of freshness. Just make sure to cut and drain any excess juices to keep the salad from becoming watery.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt or want a different flavor, vanilla yogurt or even sour cream can work. They each bring a slightly different tang and texture, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite balance.
Can I make this Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe vegan?
Yes, with some modifications. Substitute the heavy cream and yogurt with coconut cream and a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Make sure the mini marshmallows are also vegan, or omit them to keep it fully plant-based and delicious.
Is this salad best served fresh or after chilling?
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes is best to let all the flavors blend and the creamy mixture thicken slightly. It’s tasty fresh but truly shines after some resting time in the fridge.
How long can I prepare this Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe before serving?
You can prepare it several hours ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the texture of added fruits and marshmallows might change slightly if left too long, so serving within a day is ideal for optimal flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting and joyful about the Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe that keeps it a beloved classic. Its combination of creamy sweetness, juicy fruits, and playful marshmallows makes every bite special. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a potluck, or just because you deserve a treat, don’t hesitate to whip up this delightful salad. It’s a sunny, sweet reminder that simple ingredients can create extraordinary memories.
Print
Ambrosia Fruit Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a classic and refreshing dessert made by combining whipped cream, Greek yogurt, and an assortment of canned fruits, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows. This creamy, sweet salad is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Cream Mixture
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or vanilla)
Fruit and Mix-Ins
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 11 ounce can mandarin oranges, drained
- 8 ounce can pineapple tidbits, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 1/2 cups mini fruit-flavored marshmallows
- Optional add-ins: chopped pecans, sliced bananas, chopped apples
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: Add the heavy whipping cream to a large bowl or stand mixer. Beat on medium-high speed with electric beaters for 1-2 minutes until it starts to thicken. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Then, gently fold in the Greek yogurt until evenly combined.
- Prepare the Fruits: Thoroughly drain the canned mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, and maraschino cherries to remove excess juice. In a large serving bowl, combine the drained fruits, shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, and any optional add-ins like chopped pecans, sliced bananas, or chopped apples.
- Combine and Chill: Fold the whipped cream and yogurt mixture into the bowl with fruits and mix gently to combine, avoiding deflating the whipped cream. Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the salad to firm up slightly.
Notes
- Make sure to drain canned fruits thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
- You can substitute vanilla yogurt for plain Greek yogurt for added sweetness and flavor.
- Chilling the salad enhances the taste and texture, but it can be served immediately if needed.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans for a crunchy texture contrast.
- This salad is best consumed within 2 days when properly refrigerated.
