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Creamy Ambrosia Salad

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This creamy old-fashioned ambrosia salad is a nostalgic holiday dessert featuring a blend of whipped cream, tangy citrus, soft marshmallows, and juicy fruit. Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings, it’s comfort food with a festive twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat or light)
  • 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip or real whipped cream)
  • 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks or tidbits, drained
  • 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry (optional)
  • 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
  • 1–2 bananas, sliced (add just before serving)
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows (white or rainbow)
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut (or unsweetened)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Greek yogurt (optional substitution for sour cream)
  • Almonds or sunflower seeds (optional substitution for nuts)
  • Fresh berries (optional substitution for bananas or grapes)
  • Dairy-free whipped topping and coconut yogurt (for vegan version)

Instructions

  1. Drain mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks thoroughly in a colander. Pat dry with paper towels. Halve grapes and cherries, slice bananas (add bananas just before serving). Chop nuts if using.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream and whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
  3. Add drained oranges, pineapple, grapes, cherries, and coconut to the creamy base. Gently fold with a spatula. Add marshmallows and nuts (if using) last.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best) to let flavors meld and marshmallows soften.
  5. Just before serving, fold in sliced bananas. Transfer salad to a serving bowl or trifle dish. Garnish with extra cherries or coconut if desired.
  6. If salad turns watery, check fruit draining step. For extra creaminess, add a dollop of whipped cream before serving. If too sweet, stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Notes

For best results, drain and dry canned fruit thoroughly to prevent watery salad. Chill for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for optimal texture and flavor. Add bananas just before serving to prevent browning. Customize with berries, nuts, or dairy-free options as desired. Not recommended for freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: ambrosia salad, creamy fruit salad, holiday dessert, potluck recipe, old-fashioned dessert, marshmallow salad, coconut fruit salad

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/creamy-ambrosia-salad-recipe-best-old-fashioned-holiday-dessert/