Ambrosia Fruit Salad (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
15 oz. Mandarin oranges, drained well
02 -
20 oz. pineapple chunks, drained well
03 -
12 oz. jar of maraschino cherries, drained well
04 -
3/4 cup vanilla Greek yogurt (6 oz container)
05 -
1 cup shredded coconut
06 -
1 cup mini marshmallows
07 -
8 oz. tub Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed
08 -
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for topping)
# Instructions:
01 -
Start by thoroughly draining the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries. This step is crucial to prevent your ambrosia salad from becoming watery. Pour each fruit into a colander and let it sit for a few minutes, giving it a gentle shake to release excess juice. While you're handling the cherries, take a moment to check for any stems that might have snuck in – they occasionally appear in jars and nobody wants to bite into one!
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, add your well-drained mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries. The vibrant colors already make this a feast for the eyes! Now add the vanilla Greek yogurt, which gives the salad a creamy texture and slight tanginess that balances the sweetness. Sprinkle in the shredded coconut and mini marshmallows. These add wonderful texture and that classic ambrosia flavor profile that generations have loved.
03 -
Using a large spoon or rubber spatula, gently mix all these ingredients together until they're well combined. You want to coat all the fruit pieces with yogurt without breaking them up too much. The marshmallows will begin absorbing some of the moisture and flavors, and the coconut will distribute throughout the mixture. You'll see the salad starting to come together into a colorful, textured delight.
04 -
Now for the ingredient that gives ambrosia its signature light, fluffy texture – the whipped topping! Spoon the thawed Cool Whip into your bowl and use a folding motion with your spatula to incorporate it. Slice down through the mixture, sweep across the bottom, and turn it up and over. Repeat this gentle folding motion until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain as much of that airy texture as possible.
05 -
Transfer your finished ambrosia salad to a serving bowl or an airtight container if you're making it ahead. While you can serve it immediately, letting it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully together. The marshmallows will soften slightly, and the coconut will absorb some of the fruit flavors, creating that classic ambrosia taste that's greater than the sum of its parts.
06 -
Just before serving, give your ambrosia salad a gentle stir to redistribute any fruit or liquid that may have settled. If you'd like to add a wonderful textural contrast, sprinkle the top with freshly chopped pecans. The slight crunch and nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet, creamy base. (Remember to add these just before serving, as they'll soften if left in the refrigerated mixture for too long.)
# Notes:
01 -
This classic ambrosia salad is a beloved Southern dessert that's perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or summer picnics.
02 -
For a fun seasonal twist, look for flavored whipped toppings in the fall, such as Birthday Cake Cool Whip, to give your ambrosia a unique flavor profile.
03 -
This dish can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for parties and gatherings when you want to minimize day-of preparation.