ADVERTISEMENT
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and whipped cream (or Cool Whip). If you’re using heavy whipping cream, whip it in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the sour cream gently. This creamy base is what gives the salad its signature richness.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries (if using) to the creamy base. Gently fold everything together to avoid breaking up the delicate fruit and marshmallows. Be sure to coat all the ingredients evenly with the creamy mixture.
4. Optional Add-ins:
If you’d like to add a bit of crunch, you can stir in some chopped nuts (like pecans, walnuts, or almonds) for extra texture. You can also add a bit of extra coconut or marshmallows, depending on your preference.
5. Chill and Serve:
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the Ambrosia Salad for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even more delicious.
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir, and it’s ready to delight your guests!
Why You’ll Love Classic Ambrosia Salad:
- Sweet and Creamy: With its whipped cream base and sweet fruits, Ambrosia Salad offers a satisfying sweetness that makes it a perfect dessert. It’s indulgent but refreshing, with the whipped cream and sour cream balancing out the fruity flavors.
- Customizable: One of the best things about Ambrosia Salad is that you can tweak it to suit your taste. Feel free to adjust the amount of coconut or marshmallows, or even swap out some of the fruits. Adding fresh berries or bananas can give it a fun twist while still keeping the classic vibe.
- Easy to Make: Ambrosia Salad is a no-bake dish that requires little effort to prepare. It’s perfect for busy holiday seasons or when you want to bring a delicious side or dessert to a gathering.
- Kid-Friendly: Thanks to its sweet flavors and fun, colorful ingredients, Ambrosia Salad is a hit with kids. It’s a great way to sneak in some fruit while indulging in something everyone will enjoy.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, Thanksgiving, or a family reunion, Ambrosia Salad is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s also a great way to celebrate Easter, Christmas, or other festive gatherings.
Variations to Try:
- Tropical Ambrosia: Add some diced mango, papaya, or kiwi to give this salad a tropical flair. You can also swap the pineapple for coconut-flavored yogurt to enhance the tropical vibe.
- Citrus Ambrosia: Mix in some fresh grapefruit, tangerines, or orange slices for an extra citrusy punch. These fruits will complement the sweetness of the other ingredients while adding some zing.
- Lighter Ambrosia: For a lighter version, use low-fat or fat-free whipped topping, sour cream, and marshmallows. You can also swap the heavy cream for Greek yogurt to keep things fresh and light without sacrificing the creamy texture.
- Nut-Free Ambrosia: If you’re catering to those with nut allergies, simply skip the nuts altogether. The creamy base and fruity mix will still make this dessert a hit.
Conclusion:
Classic Ambrosia Salad is a timeless dessert that combines the best of fruity sweetness, creamy texture, and nostalgia. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, holiday dinner, or casual family get-together, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that requires minimal effort but delivers big on flavor.
Next time you’re looking for a dish that combines indulgence and simplicity, give this recipe a try—your guests will be coming back for seconds!
