Ambrosia Salad is a classic Southern dessert made with sweet fruit, fluffy whipped topping, coconut, and marshmallows. This nostalgic no-bake recipe is a staple at holiday dinners, family reunions, Easter celebrations, and summer cookouts.
Light, creamy, and bursting with fruity flavor, it's always a crowd favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
No-bake dessert
Easy to make
Perfect for holidays
Great potluck dish
Family favorite
Make-ahead friendly
Ingredients
1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks, drained
1 can (15 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 cup maraschino cherries, halved
1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Fruit
Drain the pineapple and mandarin oranges thoroughly.
Pat dry if needed.
Step 2: Make The Creamy Base
In a large bowl combine:
Whipped topping
Sour cream
Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Add The Ingredients
Fold in:
Pineapple
Mandarin oranges
Coconut
Marshmallows
Cherries
Mix gently until combined.
Step 4: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with extra cherries and coconut before serving.
Tips For The Best Ambrosia Salad
Drain fruit completely.
Chill before serving.
Use fresh whipped cream if preferred.
Fold ingredients gently.
What To Serve With Ambrosia Salad
Sweet Potato Pie
Peach Cobbler
Banana Pudding
Holiday Ham
Easter Dinner
BBQ Cookout Favorites
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
More Dessert Recipes You'll Love
Sweet Potato Pie
Peach Cobbler
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Apple Pie Cookies
Pumpkin Pie
Cherry Pie
Final Thoughts
This Ambrosia Salad is creamy, fruity, sweet, and incredibly easy to make. It's a timeless Southern dessert that belongs at every holiday gathering and family celebration.