Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe: A Sweet and Creamy Delight

If you’re looking for a nostalgic, creamy, and refreshing dessert that’s incredibly easy to make, this Classic Ambrosia Salad is the perfect choice. With a combination of juicy pineapple, sweet mandarin oranges, fluffy marshmallows, and shredded coconut, this timeless dish has been a favorite at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and summer barbecues for generations.

Introduction

There’s something magical about Ambrosia Salad—its sweet, creamy texture and tropical flavors make it a standout dish at any event. The name “ambrosia” originates from Greek mythology, where it was considered the food of the gods, and after one bite of this delightful dessert, you’ll understand why.

This Classic Ambrosia Salad recipe is incredibly simple to prepare with just a handful of ingredients. It’s a no-bake dish that comes together in minutes, making it a go-to option for anyone who needs a quick and delicious dessert. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, Thanksgiving feast, Easter celebration, or a summer picnic, this fruit-filled creamy treat will be a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

To make this classic and irresistible Ambrosia Salad, you’ll need the following:

Essential Ingredients

1 (20-ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained
1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup mini marshmallows

How to Make Classic Ambrosia Salad

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by draining the canned pineapple and mandarin oranges thoroughly to remove excess liquid. This helps keep the salad from becoming too watery.

2. Combine the Fruit and Mix-ins

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows. Gently toss the ingredients to distribute them evenly.

3. Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the fruit mixture and stir until everything is well coated. This step adds the perfect level of sweetness and creaminess, making the salad rich and indulgent.

4. Fold in the Whipped Topping

Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the light and airy texture of the whipped topping. This is what gives Ambrosia Salad its signature fluffy consistency.

5. Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results). This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the marshmallows time to absorb the creamy dressing, making the salad even more delicious. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

Drain the Fruit Well: Excess moisture can make the salad runny, so be sure to drain the canned fruit properly.
Use Fresh Whipped Cream: If you prefer homemade whipped cream over store-bought whipped topping, you can whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Customize the Sweetness: If you want a less sweet version, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut and reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
Let it Chill: Allowing the salad to rest in the refrigerator enhances the flavors and improves the texture.

Cooking Tips

To make this Classic Ambrosia Salad even better, consider these pro tips:

Add More Fruit: For extra texture and flavor, toss in chopped bananas, maraschino cherries, grapes, or diced apples.
Make it Crunchy: Add a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds for a delicious crunch.
Boost the Flavor: A splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the overall taste.
Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute half of the whipped topping with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy and protein-rich alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet and creamy Ambrosia Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a:

Side dish at holiday feasts such as Thanksgiving, Easter, or Christmas
Refreshing summer dessert for barbecues and picnics
Light and fruity snack for any time of day
Topping for pancakes or waffles to add a tropical twist

Nutritional Information

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 290
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 60mg
Vitamin C: 30%
Calcium: 8%
Iron: 4%

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Avoid Freezing: Due to the creamy consistency, Ambrosia Salad does not freeze well.
Revive Leftovers: If the salad looks dry after storing, stir in a little extra whipped topping before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to blend better, making it even more delicious.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple, oranges, and even mango work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Can I make Ambrosia Salad dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free whipped topping and sweetened condensed coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free version.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming too watery?
Make sure to drain all canned fruits well and avoid adding excess liquid ingredients.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Classic Ambrosia Salad, try these other delicious recipes:

Conclusion

This Classic Ambrosia Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and fluffy textures, making it a must-have dessert for any special occasion. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for potlucks, holidays, and everyday treats. Try it today and enjoy a sweet, tropical bite of nostalgia! 🍍🥥