Ambrosia Salad: A Sweet, Creamy Classic That Never Gets Old
Light, fluffy, and bursting with fruity goodness, Ambrosia Salad is the kind of recipe that feels like pure nostalgia in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a holiday table, a summer barbecue, or just because you’re craving something sweet and creamy, this dish is always a hit. It’s ridiculously easy to throw together, requiring just a few simple ingredients, yet it delivers big on flavor and texture.
But did you know this dessert salad has been around since the late 19th century? Named after the “food of the gods” in Greek mythology, Ambrosia was once considered a luxurious treat, thanks to the rarity of citrus fruits and coconut. Over time, it evolved into a beloved American classic, often appearing at family gatherings and potlucks.
What makes this version so special? It strikes the perfect balance—just the right amount of creamy, fruity, and sweet without being overly heavy. Plus, since it’s a no-bake recipe, it’s as effortless as it is delicious. So, grab a bowl and get ready to make a dessert that never goes out of style!
Recipe Yield: 6–8 servings
INGREDIENTS
1 cup sour cream
1 ½ cups whipped topping
One can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
One can (20 oz) pineapple tidbits, drained
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
One cup maraschino cherries, drained, rinsed, and halved
¾ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream and whipped topping until smooth and well blended.
2. Fold in the fruit and mix-ins: Gently add the mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, coconut, marshmallows, and maraschino cherries. If using nuts, fold them in last. Stir everything carefully to avoid breaking the fruit.
3. Chill for the best flavor: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the texture set.
4. Serve and enjoy! Give it a gentle stir before serving, then dish it up and enjoy this creamy, fruity delight!
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Rinse the cherries – This prevents the salad from turning pink and keeps the flavors balanced.
- Drain fruit completely – Let the canned fruit sit in a strainer for a few minutes to avoid excess liquid making the salad runny.
- Chill for at least 2 hours – This allows the marshmallows to soften and the flavors to blend beautifully.
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