This classic fluffy Ambrosia Salad is easy to make and is the perfect side dish to bring to parties and potlucks! If you love the sugary goodness of marshmallows and sweet fruity flavors, then you’ll love this nostalgic treat. Make it for special occasions or just a family meal!
Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a classic Southern recipe. Sure, we call it a “salad”, but it’s really more of a light dessert. This classic recipe is named for the Greek “food of the gods”!
An ambrosia recipe might include different fruits, mini marshmallows, and various other toppings like coconut or crushed pecans. Some use sour cream or cottage cheese. Just about every Southern family has their favorite Ambrosia Salad recipe that is made “the right way”!
I’m happy to share my favorite recipe for ambrosia salad with you. The addition of Greek yogurt and Cool Whip makes this the perfect creamy fruit salad! I love the tangy bits of pineapple and mandarin oranges combined with the sweet maraschino cherries and fruit-flavored marshmallows. Of course, you can leave out anything that’s not to your taste, but I really think you’ll love this easy ambrosia salad recipe! It’s a family favorite!
Ingredients for Homemade Ambrosia Salad
Gather together the following items to make the best ambrosia salad you’ve ever eaten:
- Cool Whip (thaw before using) – or use my Stabilized Whipped Cream recipe
- Vanilla Greek yogurt
- Sweetened shredded coconut
- Canned mandarin oranges, drained
- Canned Pineapple chunks, drained (pineapple tidbits work well too!)
- Maraschino cherries, drained
- Fruit-flavored miniature marshmallows
You can find a detailed ingredient list and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of the post!
How to Make Ambrosia Salad
This classic fruit salad couldn’t be easier to make! Here’s how:
- In a large bowl, stir together the thawed Cool Whip, Greek vanilla yogurt, and coconut shreds.
- Open and drain all the cans of fruit, then add them to the yogurt mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Finally, fold in the marshmallows and stir to coat. Cover and let the ambrosia chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This lets all those fruity flavors spread and combine.
- Before serving, top with more maraschino cherries (optional). Serve and enjoy!
FAQs
How do I store leftover Ambrosia Salad?
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, enjoy this salad the same day or within 24 hours.
Can I make this side dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Ambrosia salad is a perfect dish to make ahead of time. I recommend making it the night before you plan to serve it, as if you make it too far in advance the texture will begin to degrade.
Can I use fresh fruit in this recipe?
Part of the delight of this recipe comes from the texture. Canned fruit is generally softer and sweeter so I recommend sticking with that.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Sure, swap out the Cool Whip and Greek yogurt for non-dairy versions of whipped topping, such as those made with coconut milk or other plant-based versions.
How can I know it’s done chilling and ready to serve?
As it chills, the ambrosia salad will thicken and come together. It should look fairly smooth on the top, with bumps throughout. You don’t need to refrigerate it for a long time–2 hours is plenty of time to ensure it’s done!
What can I add for some crunch?
Consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or other nuts to this salad to enjoy a satisfying crunch in each bite.
More Delicious Salads to Share
Tons of amazing salad recipes exist, but my favorites always have fruit! Try one of these next time you need a delicious and refreshing salad:
- This Winter Salad brings together crisp spinach with juicy apple slices, tangy feta cheese, crunchy pecans, and a light, sweet vinaigrette.
- Tossed with poppyseed dressing, this easy Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe can be served as a side dish or topped with chicken for a light meal.
- This Tropical Quinoa Salad is loaded with pineapple, mango, and Mandarin oranges, and it’s also a great source of protein from the quinoa cooked in coconut milk.
Do you like fruit on your salads?
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Ambrosia Salad
This classic fluffy Ambrosia Salad is easy to make and is the perfect side dish to bring to parties and potlucks. Loaded with marshmallows and sweet fruity flavors, you’ll love this nostalgic treat!
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Instructions
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Stir the cool whip, yogurt, and coconut shreds until thoroughly combined.
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Then stir in all of the fruit.
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Finally, gently fold in the marshmallows and let chill in the fridge for about 2 hours.
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Top with more maraschino cherries, if you would like, before serving and enjoying!
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This recipe makes 8 cups and nutritional information has been calculated for ½ cup serving per person.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 128kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 27mg | Potassium: 117mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 23g | Vitamin A: 238IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 0.3mg
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