Ultimate Ambrosia Fruit Salad

Looking for a sweet, creamy, and refreshing dessert that’s easy to make and always a hit? This Ultimate Ambrosia Fruit Salad is just the thing. Packed with juicy fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and a rich cream base, this vintage-style salad is a classic for a reason. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, picnics, or anytime you want something cool and comforting.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Comes together in just 15 minutes with zero cooking required.
Creamy & Fruity – A dreamy mix of textures and flavors in every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser – A staple at gatherings, always one of the first dishes to disappear.
Customizable – Mix and match your favorite fruits or extras.
Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert – Even better after chilling in the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fruit Salad:

• 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
• 1½ cups red seedless grapes, halved
• 1½ cups mini marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1½ cups maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry
• 1 banana, sliced (optional—add just before serving to prevent browning)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for natural sweetness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Strainer or colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Airtight container for chilling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Fruit
Drain canned fruits thoroughly to prevent a watery salad.
Halve the grapes and cherries, and pat them dry with paper towels.
If using bananas, slice them and add right before serving.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, whipped topping, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.

Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, add the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, grapes, cherries, coconut, and marshmallows.
Pour the creamy dressing over the fruit mixture.
Gently fold everything together using a rubber spatula until fully coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
This helps the flavors meld and the texture to firm up nicely.
Right before serving, fold in banana slices if using, and give it one last gentle stir.

Tips for the Best Ambrosia Salad
Drain All Fruits – Excess juice can make the salad runny.
Use Fresh Fruit – You can sub canned for fresh pineapple or oranges if desired.
Pat the Cherries Dry – Prevents the red color from bleeding into the salad.
Add Bananas Last – To avoid browning, always add them just before serving.
Don’t Overmix – Fold gently to keep the fruit from breaking apart.

Serving Suggestions
Holiday Side – A festive favorite at Thanksgiving, Easter, and Christmas.
Summer BBQs – A refreshing treat for warm-weather gatherings.
Dessert Cups – Serve in individual cups or parfait glasses for a pretty presentation.
Brunch Buffets – Adds a sweet, creamy option to your morning spread.
Light Dessert – It’s satisfying without being overly rich or heavy.

How to Store & Make Ahead

Storing:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Best consumed within 24–48 hours for ideal texture.

Freezing:

• Not recommended. The cream and fruit texture won’t hold up after thawing.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Prepare the full salad (minus the bananas) the night before.
• Add the bananas just before serving to keep them fresh and bright.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does “ambrosia” mean?
In Greek mythology, ambrosia was the food of the gods. This salad gets its name because it’s sweet, heavenly, and beloved at gatherings.

2. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Plain Greek yogurt is a great alternative and adds a slight tang while keeping it creamy.

3. Are there any nut-free options?
This recipe is naturally nut-free, but you can add slivered almonds or chopped pecans if desired.

4. Can I make it vegan?
Yes—use a dairy-free yogurt, vegan whipped topping, and plant-based mini marshmallows.

5. What fruits can I swap in?
Try strawberries, blueberries, or diced apples. Just keep the total fruit volume the same.

Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a timeless dessert that always brings a smile. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday table or packing it up for a summer picnic, its creamy texture and vibrant fruit make it a standout dish every time. Easy to prepare, loved by all ages, and totally customizable—it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Whip up a bowl today and enjoy a little taste of tradition with a modern twist. And don’t forget to share your version with us—we’d love to see how you make it your own!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Cuisine: American (Classic Southern-Inspired)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 2g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 80mg

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