Classic Creamy Fruit Salad

This Ambrosia Salad is a classic no-bake dessert salad that’s creamy, fluffy, fruity, and always a crowd favorite. Made with juicy pineapple, mandarin oranges, colorful marshmallows, coconut, whipped topping, and sour cream, this easy recipe comes together in just 15 minutes with no cooking required.

Perfect for holidays, potlucks, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, BBQs, baby showers, and family gatherings, this old-fashioned Ambrosia Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with sweet tropical flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Ambrosia Salad

• Quick 15-minute recipe
• No baking required
• Sweet, creamy, and refreshing
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• Great for holidays and potlucks
• Easy to customize with your favorite fruits
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

What Is Ambrosia Salad?

Ambrosia Salad is a traditional American fruit salad made with whipped topping, sour cream, marshmallows, coconut, and canned fruit. Despite its name, it’s typically served as a dessert or sweet side dish during holidays and celebrations.

Ingredients

• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 2 cups miniature marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Optional Add-Ins

• Chopped pecans
• Chopped walnuts
• Green grapes
• Fresh strawberries
• Blueberries
• Diced apples
• Bananas (add just before serving)

How to Make Ambrosia Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Drain the pineapple and mandarin oranges thoroughly.

Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Drain and halve the maraschino cherries.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Sour cream
• Whipped topping
• Vanilla extract (if using)

Fold together until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Mix-Ins

Gently fold in:

• Pineapple
• Mandarin oranges
• Marshmallows
• Coconut
• Cherries

Mix carefully until evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Serve

Stir gently before serving.

Garnish with extra cherries, coconut, or fresh fruit if desired.

Serve chilled.

Tips for the Best Ambrosia Salad

• Drain canned fruit very well to prevent a watery salad.
• Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
• Fold gently to keep the fruit intact.
• Add bananas just before serving to prevent browning.
• Use full-fat sour cream for a richer texture.

Delicious Variations

Tropical Ambrosia Salad

Add:

• Mango
• Kiwi
• Papaya
• Fresh pineapple

Berry Ambrosia Salad

Mix in:

• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Raspberries

Pistachio Ambrosia

Mix in one package of pistachio pudding mix for a fun twist.

Cherry Ambrosia Salad

Double the maraschino cherries for extra sweetness.

Nutty Ambrosia Salad

Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

What to Serve with Ambrosia Salad

• Grilled chicken
• BBQ ribs
• Ham
• Turkey
• Pulled pork
• Burgers
• Fried chicken
• Holiday dinners
• Picnic spreads

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy texture may separate after thawing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining the fruit thoroughly
• Overmixing the fruit
• Skipping the chilling time
• Adding bananas too early
• Using frozen fruit without thawing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?

Yes! It’s even better after chilling for several hours or overnight.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely. Freshly whipped cream makes this salad even richer and lighter.

Can I use fresh fruit?

Yes. Fresh pineapple, oranges, grapes, berries, and apples work beautifully.

Is Ambrosia Salad a dessert or a side dish?

It can be served as either, depending on the occasion.

Pro Tips

• Chill the serving bowl before adding the salad for extra freshness.
• Fold ingredients gently to maintain a fluffy texture.
• Garnish with toasted coconut for added flavor and crunch.
• Serve cold for the best taste and consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Ambrosia Salad is a timeless dessert that combines creamy, fluffy textures with sweet, juicy fruit for a refreshing treat everyone loves. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast, summer barbecue, family reunion, or potluck, this easy no-bake recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. With endless ways to customize the fruit and toppings, it’s a versatile dessert you’ll come back to again and again.