Looking for a retro dessert that still dazzles at every party? The ambrosia salad recipe is one of those old-school dishes that never go out of style. It’s creamy, fruity, fluffy, and sweet—exactly what you want when you’re rounding out a summer BBQ, holiday dinner, or church potluck. This classic Southern treat brings together colorful canned fruits, pillowy marshmallows, and a tangy-sweet whipped base that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re craving something nostalgic or just need a no-bake dessert that comes together in minutes, this is your go-to. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything—from prepping to serving, variations, storage tips, and expert answers to your top ambrosia salad questions.
Learn more about refreshing fruity desserts in this Strawberry Dole Whip recipe.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Nostalgic Comfort of Ambrosia Salad
There’s something magical about the ambrosia salad recipe that transports people back to simpler times. It’s the kind of dish Grandma proudly brought to every family reunion, and it still shows up at modern tables for a reason. It’s nostalgic, yes—but more than that, it’s just plain delicious.
The combination of mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, sweetened shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and mini marshmallows hits every sweet note. The creamy base—typically sour cream, whipped topping, or a blend of both—ties everything together into a fluffy dessert that’s as colorful as it is flavorful.
This is more than just a salad—it’s a sweet celebration in a bowl.
Perfect for Holidays, Potlucks, or Anytime Sweet Craving
One of the biggest perks of the ambrosia salad recipe is its versatility. Need a quick dessert to bring to a 4th of July cookout? Done. Looking for a side that even picky eaters will devour at Thanksgiving? This checks the box. Hosting a baby shower or Easter brunch? Ambrosia never fails to charm.
Since there’s no baking involved, it’s a low-effort, high-reward kind of dish. It’s great for make-ahead meal planners too. Just mix it up, let it chill, and you’re golden.
Whether it’s a holiday table or a casual weeknight craving, this dish brings joy to every spoonful.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Quick Overview of Time to Prep, Chill, and Serve
One of the best things about the ambrosia salad recipe is just how quick and easy it is to make. You don’t need to preheat an oven or worry about precise cooking times. From start to finish, you can have everything prepped and in the fridge in under 15 minutes.
Here’s a breakdown of your total time commitment:
| Task | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Ingredient Prep | 10 minutes |
| Mixing and Assembling | 5 minutes |
| Chill Time (recommended) | 2 hours (or overnight) |
| Total Time | 2 hours 15 minutes (with chill) |
If you’re really pressed for time, you can serve it right away, but chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the texture to firm up just right.
Make-Ahead Tips to Save Time
Planning ahead? This ambrosia salad recipe is ideal for that. Here are a few tricks to streamline your prep:
- Prep the fruit the night before. Drain the cans and store each component separately in airtight containers.
- Mix just before serving. If you’re worried about sogginess, wait to mix in the whipped topping and marshmallows until an hour before you serve it.
- Double the batch for crowds. This salad scales easily—just make sure you have a large enough bowl!
Whether you’re feeding two or twenty, this sweet salad is one of the easiest crowd-pleasers you’ll ever whip up.
Ingredients
Traditional Ambrosia Salad Ingredients
The beauty of this ambrosia salad recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredient list is short, budget-friendly, and usually includes items already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need for the classic version:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mini marshmallows | 1 ½ cups | White or rainbow for a fun look |
| Mandarin oranges | 1 can (15 oz) | Drained well |
| Crushed pineapple | 1 can (20 oz) | Drained to avoid sogginess |
| Maraschino cherries | ¾ cup | Halved and patted dry |
| Sweetened shredded coconut | ¾ cup | Optional, but adds texture |
| Sour cream | 1 cup | Balances the sweetness |
| Whipped topping (Cool Whip) | 1 cup | Lightens the texture |
Pro Tip: Always drain the fruits thoroughly. Extra liquid can make your ambrosia runny, and nobody wants a soggy salad.
This recipe doesn’t require precision to taste great—adjust the mix-ins to your liking and the portion sizes to your crowd.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor and Texture
Want to customize your ambrosia salad recipe? No problem! It’s super flexible and takes well to different flavors and textures.
Here are a few fun extras to toss in:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
- Fresh orange zest to boost citrus flavor
- Vanilla yogurt or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist
- Cream cheese for a richer, thicker base
- Banana slices or apple chunks (add right before serving to avoid browning)
You can make this dish as traditional or as creative as you want. That’s part of the charm—it’s a salad that invites you to play.
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Mix the Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Texture
Making this ambrosia salad recipe couldn’t be easier, but the secret to its creamy, fluffy texture is all in the order and handling. Follow these steps and your salad will turn out luscious every time.
Step 1: Drain the fruit.
Use a colander to fully drain the mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and maraschino cherries. You want them dry—not dripping. For cherries, gently pat with a paper towel to remove extra moisture and avoid pink streaks in your salad.
Step 2: Mix the base.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and whipped topping (like Cool Whip). Fold them together until they blend into a smooth, creamy base. This mix should be fluffy, not over-whipped.
Step 3: Add the fruits and coconut.
Gently fold in the pineapple, mandarin oranges, shredded coconut, and cherries. Use a rubber spatula and work slowly to keep the fruits from breaking down.
Step 4: Stir in the marshmallows.
Last but not least, add your mini marshmallows. Stir just until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill the salad.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Overnight is even better! This allows the flavors to develop and the salad to firm up perfectly.
Don’t miss our indulgent treat: Coffee Cheesecake—a perfect dessert pairing with ambrosia on your holiday table.
Tips for Balancing Sweetness and Creaminess
It’s easy to end up with a salad that’s either too sweet or too thick. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance:
- For a tangier flavor: Add more sour cream or swap in Greek yogurt.
- For more sweetness: A splash of condensed milk or extra marshmallows does the trick.
- For a fluffier texture: Fold in more whipped topping just before serving.
- To reduce richness: Add a few more fruit chunks for a fresher finish.
This ambrosia salad recipe is forgiving. Don’t stress—adjust as you go, and it’ll turn out beautifully.
How to Serve
Best Occasions and Ways to Present Ambrosia Salad
One of the reasons the ambrosia salad recipe is still beloved today is because of how well it fits into nearly any occasion. Whether you’re laying out a holiday buffet or just need a cool dish on a hot summer day, this salad always earns its spot on the table.
Here are some favorite occasions to serve it:
- Thanksgiving & Christmas: It’s a staple on Southern holiday tables. It pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, and all the fixings.
- Easter brunches: Light, fruity, and pastel-colored, ambrosia practically screams spring celebration.
- BBQs & picnics: Cold and refreshing, it’s the ideal no-bake dessert to balance grilled meats and savory sides.
- Potlucks & church dinners: No fancy tools, no reheating—this salad travels and serves like a charm.
When serving, keep it chilled right up until mealtime. Use a clear glass bowl to show off the bright colors, or spoon into individual cups for neat, party-ready servings.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Banana Pudding with Chessman Cookies for another Southern-style dessert everyone will love.
Ideal Pairings and Serving Ideas for the Dish
This isn’t your average fruit salad—it’s creamy, fluffy, and sweet. That means it plays best with salty, smoky, and hearty mains or as a fun finale to your meal. Here’s how to complete the experience:
| Main Course | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Smoked ham or glazed turkey | The sweetness of ambrosia cuts the salt |
| BBQ pulled pork or grilled chicken | Cool, creamy contrast to smoky flavors |
| Breakfast casseroles or quiches | Great as a brunch side or light dessert |
Serving Ideas:
- Top with extra cherries for color pop
- Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans for crunch
- Serve in parfait glasses layered with whipped topping
No matter how you serve it, this ambrosia salad recipe delivers smiles by the spoonful. It’s the kind of dish people sneak seconds of—especially when they think no one’s looking.
Additional Tips
What Not to Do When Making Ambrosia
Even though the ambrosia salad recipe is easy, there are a few mistakes that can take it from dreamy to drippy—or worse, downright mushy. Here’s what to avoid:
- Don’t skip draining the fruit. Canned pineapple and mandarin oranges are packed in syrup or juice. If you don’t fully drain them, you’ll end up with a soupy mess.
- Don’t over-mix. Once you’ve added your fruit and marshmallows, fold gently. Over-mixing breaks down the fruit and turns your salad to mush.
- Don’t add bananas too early. If you want to use sliced bananas, add them just before serving to avoid browning.
- Don’t serve it warm. This dish shines when it’s chilled. Warm ambrosia? Not the vibe.
Keeping these in mind ensures a perfectly fluffy, fruity, and satisfying dish.
Tips to Prevent Sogginess and Separation
A perfect ambrosia salad recipe holds its structure and looks beautiful on the plate. Follow these extra tips to keep it fresh and fabulous:
- Refrigerate it immediately after mixing. Ambrosia needs time in the fridge to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
- Use fresh whipped cream carefully. Homemade whipped cream can break down faster than store-bought whipped topping. If using it, serve the salad the same day.
- Keep it covered. Use plastic wrap or a sealed container to keep it from absorbing fridge odors and drying out.
Check out this fruit-forward dish too: Pineapple Cucumber Salad for a fresh and savory contrast to ambrosia.
These little moves make a big difference. With the right handling, this dish will wow guests, hold up beautifully, and taste like a sweet little cloud.
Recipe Variation
Tropical Ambrosia Salad with Exotic Fruits
Looking to level up the classic ambrosia salad recipe with a tropical twist? Try swapping in or adding fruits that bring bold, exotic flavors and vibrant colors.
Here’s how to go tropical:
| Classic Ingredient | Tropical Substitute |
|---|---|
| Mandarin oranges | Mango chunks or papaya |
| Crushed pineapple | Fresh diced pineapple or guava |
| Maraschino cherries | Fresh pomegranate or kiwi |
| Sweetened coconut | Toasted coconut flakes |
Other additions to consider:
- Lychee or dragon fruit for extra flair
- Passionfruit pulp for a tart-sweet punch
- Lime zest to brighten the whole dish
These swaps bring in a more vibrant, island-inspired flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with barbecued meats or beachside snacks.
Healthier Versions (Low Sugar, Low-Fat Options)
Want a lighter take on the traditional ambrosia salad recipe? You can enjoy this sweet treat without overloading on sugar or fat. Here’s how to do it smartly:
- Use light or fat-free whipped topping instead of regular Cool Whip
- Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt—you’ll still get the tang, with added protein
- Go for unsweetened coconut and reduce the mini marshmallows
- Use fresh fruit instead of canned to avoid added syrups
Pro Tip: Mix in a few spoonfuls of vanilla Greek yogurt to balance creaminess and tang without sacrificing flavor.
Discover great ideas like this one in our sweet and sticky Homemade Caramel Apples that are just as fun to customize.
The best thing about ambrosia is how customizable it is. Whether you’re going full tropical or trimming the sugar, there’s always a way to make it yours—without losing what makes it so lovable.
Freezing and Storage
How to Store in Fridge or Freezer
Once your ambrosia salad recipe is prepared, the clock starts ticking on freshness. But don’t worry—it holds up quite well with proper storage. Here’s what to know:
Refrigeration:
- Store in an airtight container or tightly covered bowl
- Keep refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or lower
- Best consumed within 2–3 days
- Stir before serving to restore texture, especially if marshmallows start to absorb moisture
Freezing? It’s tricky.
While you can freeze ambrosia, it’s not always the best option. The creamy base tends to separate and fruits like mandarin oranges get icy or mushy after thawing.
Still want to freeze? Here’s how to minimize texture loss:
- Use freezer-safe, airtight containers
- Portion into individual servings
- Thaw slowly in the fridge (never at room temperature)
- Stir gently before eating, and expect a slightly different texture
Best Practice: Make ambrosia fresh and chill in the fridge. It only takes 10–15 minutes to prep, so it’s usually worth starting from scratch.
How Long Ambrosia Salad Stays Fresh
| Storage Method | Shelf Life | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge | 2 to 3 days | Keep it tightly sealed |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Expect texture changes after thawing |
Don’t miss our southern favorites like Hoe Cakes for another old-fashioned comfort food to enjoy with ambrosia.
If you’re making it ahead for a gathering, store the fruit and base separately, then mix the salad a few hours before serving for the freshest result.
Special Equipment
Kitchen Tools You Need to Make It Right
The best thing about the ambrosia salad recipe is that it doesn’t demand any fancy gadgets or specialized equipment. This is an old-school dish, and it plays well in any kitchen—whether you’re a seasoned cook or a first-timer.
Here’s all you really need:
| Tool | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | To combine all ingredients comfortably |
| Rubber spatula | For gentle folding without breaking down the fruit |
| Colander or strainer | To fully drain canned fruits (absolutely essential) |
| Measuring cups | For portion control—especially marshmallows and cream |
| Plastic wrap or lid | To keep it fresh during refrigeration |
Optional but helpful:
- Glass trifle dish or clear bowl for pretty presentation
- Serving spoons or portion cups for neat plating at parties
This isn’t the type of recipe where precise tools make or break the dish—but having the right gear will definitely make the process smoother and cleaner.
Tools That Simplify the Prep Process
Want to streamline your salad prep even more? Try using:
- Salad spinner: To quickly remove moisture if you opt for fresh fruit over canned
- Hand mixer: To blend homemade whipped cream, if you’re going from scratch
- Zester or microplane: For adding a bright citrus finish (especially in tropical variations)
Don’t miss our zesty take on poultry with this Coconut Lime Chicken —a savory main that balances the sweetness of ambrosia beautifully.
At the end of the day, the beauty of the ambrosia salad recipe lies in its simplicity. If you have a bowl, a spoon, and a fridge, you’re more than ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ambrosia salad made of?
At its core, the ambrosia salad recipe blends canned or fresh fruits (like mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and cherries), mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and a creamy base—typically a combo of sour cream and whipped topping. Some folks add pecans, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt to give it a personal twist. It’s all about soft textures and sweet, fruity flavors.
What was the original ambrosia?
The original ambrosia dates back to the late 19th century in the Southern U.S. It started as a simple fruit salad made with orange slices, grated coconut, and sugar—served chilled. Over time, it evolved into the creamy, marshmallow-filled ambrosia salad recipe we love today. The name “ambrosia” actually refers to the “food of the gods,” and once you try it, you’ll understand why.
What is the difference between Watergate salad and ambrosia salad?
Great question—these two retro salads are often confused. While both are creamy and sweet, they differ in ingredients:
Watergate Salad
Uses pistachio pudding mix
Includes crushed pineapple and marshmallows
Often has walnuts or pecans
Light green in color
Ambrosia Salad
No pudding—just whipped topping and/or sour cream
Includes various fruits, coconut, and marshmallows
May or may not include nuts
Mostly white with colorful fruit bits
Both are no-bake, nostalgic crowd-pleasers, but if you’re craving that creamy fruit explosion, the ambrosia salad recipe wins.
Do you put sour cream in ambrosia?
Yes, most traditional versions of the ambrosia salad recipe include sour cream. It balances the sweetness of the marshmallows and fruit and gives the salad that signature tangy undertone. If you’re not a fan of sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt or even a little softened cream cheese for similar results.
How to make ambrosia?
It’s as easy as it gets:
Drain your canned fruit.
Mix sour cream and whipped topping.
Fold in fruit, marshmallows, and coconut.
Chill for a couple of hours.
Serve and enjoy!
For full instructions, scroll up to Step-by-Step Instructions. This ambrosia salad recipe is beginner-friendly and done in under 15 minutes—perfect for last-minute dessert needs.
Is there cream cheese in ambrosia salad?
Cream cheese isn’t in the original version, but some modern takes on the ambrosia salad recipe do include it. It gives the salad a thicker, richer consistency and a slight tang. If you’re using cream cheese, soften it first and blend it with the whipped topping before folding in other ingredients.
Conclusion
There’s a reason the ambrosia salad recipe has stood the test of time. It’s creamy, fruity, light-as-air, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard cookout, bringing it to Grandma’s holiday table, or just whipping it up on a Wednesday night for a nostalgic treat—it always hits the sweet spot.
With just a few pantry staples, a mixing bowl, and a little chill time, you’ve got a dish that feels both familiar and festive. It’s no-fuss, no-bake, and completely crowd-pleasing. And if you’re in the mood to mix things up, there are endless ways to put your own spin on it—from tropical fruits to healthier substitutions.
So go ahead—gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a spoonful of sweet, creamy comfort.
Check out another dessert that’s easy, fun, and full of charm: the old-school Muddy Buddies recipe your family will love.
Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes chill time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ambrosia Salad Recipe is a creamy, fruity, no-bake dessert made with mandarin oranges, pineapple, cherries, coconut, whipped topping, and marshmallows. It’s a nostalgic favorite perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- ¾ cup maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry
- ¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and whipped topping. Fold gently until smooth.
- Add the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, cherries, and coconut. Fold gently to combine.
- Stir in the mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Stir before serving and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Make-ahead tip: Mix up to 24 hours in advance. For best texture, stir just before serving.
- Optional additions: Chopped pecans, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt.
- Variations: Try tropical fruits like mango or papaya for a twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ambrosia Salad Recipe, no-bake dessert, creamy fruit salad, holiday side dish, vintage dessert, potluck dessert