Ambrosia Fruit Salad – Creamy, Classic No-Bake Dessert

A Timeless Classic for Every Occasion

Few dishes are as joyfully nostalgic as Ambrosia Fruit Salad. This creamy, colorful dessert salad has graced American tables for generations—especially at holidays, potlucks, and summer picnics. With its dreamy combination of juicy fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and sweet cream, ambrosia is both a dessert and a tradition.

Despite its vintage roots, this dish remains as popular as ever because it’s easy to make, easy to love, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re making it for Easter brunch or a backyard BBQ, Ambrosia Salad is always a hit.

---

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required: Just mix and chill!
• Great for crowds: Perfect for potlucks and family dinners.
• Customizable: Choose your favorite fruits or add nuts and coconut.
• Kid-friendly: Sweet, soft, and colorful—kids adore it.
• Nostalgic comfort: Classic flavors with a creamy twist.

---

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Fruit Base:

• 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved
• 1 cup seedless grapes (red or green), halved
• 1 banana, sliced (optional, add last to prevent browning)

Creamy Dressing:

• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Add-ins:

• 1½ cups mini marshmallows
• ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

---

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit

• Drain canned fruit thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
• Slice grapes and cherries in half, slice bananas if using.

2. Make the Dressing

• In a large bowl, combine sour cream (or yogurt), whipped topping, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
• Stir until smooth and fluffy.

3. Combine Everything

• Fold fruit gently into the cream mixture.
• Add marshmallows, coconut, and nuts.
• Mix until evenly coated—do not overmix to avoid breaking the fruit.

4. Chill and Serve

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
• Serve cold, garnished with extra cherries or coconut flakes.

---

🍒 Serving Suggestions

• Serve in clear glass bowls or individual cups
• Top with maraschino cherries and a sprig of mint
• Great with holiday hams or roasted turkey
• Perfect at summer BBQs alongside burgers and hot dogs
• Serve at bridal or baby showers as a sweet side

---

🔁 Recipe Variations

• Healthier version: Use plain Greek yogurt and fresh fruit only
• Tropical twist: Add mango, papaya, and lime zest
• Berry ambrosia: Use strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream or vegan whipped topping
• Crunchy style: Add toasted almonds or granola just before serving

---

📦 Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days
• Avoid freezing—texture becomes watery and mushy
• Stir gently before serving again after storage

---

📊 Nutritional Info (Per Serving Approx.)

• Calories: 240
• Carbs: 28g
• Sugar: 22g
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 3g

---

🧠 Expert Tips

• Drain fruit thoroughly to prevent excess moisture
• Chill overnight for best texture and flavor
• Add bananas last to keep them from browning
• Use fresh fruit where possible for brighter flavor
• Toast coconut or nuts for extra depth and crunch

---

❓ FAQs

Q: Is ambrosia salad a dessert or a side dish?
Both! It’s often served as a side at Southern meals but also works as a light dessert.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—ambrosia actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

Q: What if I don’t like coconut?
Just leave it out! Or replace with toasted oats or more marshmallows.

Q: Can I use frozen fruit?
Not recommended—it tends to be watery once thawed.

Q: Is this a traditional Southern recipe?
Yes—ambrosia has roots in Southern cuisine dating back to the 19th century.

---

✅ Conclusion: A Classic That Still Shines

Ambrosia Fruit Salad is more than just a mix of fruit and cream—it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you’re honoring family recipes or trying something new, this creamy fruit salad never goes out of style. It’s sweet, soft, light, and colorful—everything a festive dish should be.

Make it your own and serve it with pride!

Print