Fruity Creamy Ambrosia Salad is a delicious, classic dessert salad that combines a variety of fresh fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and a creamy whipped topping. It’s perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet treat to enjoy anytime! Here’s an easy recipe to make this creamy, fruity dish:
Fruity Creamy Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub of whipped topping for a shortcut)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved (drained)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved (optional)
- 1 banana, sliced (optional)
- 2 tbsp honey or powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Directions:
- Prepare the whipped cream:
- If using heavy cream, beat the cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. You can add a little powdered sugar or honey for sweetness, if desired. If you’re using whipped topping, skip this step.
- Mix the creamy base:
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cream with the whipped cream (or whipped topping) until smooth and creamy.
- Add the fruit:
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, and any other fruits you’re using (like grapes or banana slices).
- Add the extras:
- Stir in the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and any other add-ins (like a sprinkle of chopped nuts if you like).
- Taste and adjust sweetness:
- Taste the salad and, if you prefer a sweeter salad, add honey or powdered sugar to your liking. Gently fold in any additional ingredients.
- Chill and serve:
- Cover the Ambrosia salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours, to let the flavors meld and chill.
- Serve:
- Serve chilled as a sweet side dish or dessert. Garnish with extra cherries, coconut, or a few extra marshmallows if desired.
Tips:
- Customizing the fruit: You can swap out the mandarin oranges or pineapple for other fruits you enjoy, like strawberries, kiwi, or peaches.
- Nuts: If you like some crunch, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the salad.
- For extra creaminess: Some people like to add a bit of cream cheese to the base for a thicker texture, but it’s completely optional.
This Fruity Creamy Ambrosia Salad is a sweet, refreshing treat that’s sure to please a crowd with its delicious mix of textures and flavors. Enjoy!