This Ambrosia Salad recipe brings a classic, creamy delight to your table, perfect for holidays, picnics, and potluck gatherings. A blend of sweet fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and crunchy nuts, all enveloped in a light, tangy cream dressing, makes this dish a timeless favorite. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, Ambrosia Salad is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of nostalgia and sweetness to their meal.
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold in the light sour cream to the whipped cream mixture.
Add the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts to the cream mixture, stirring gently to combine.
Carefully fold in the drained pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, and halved grapes, ensuring even distribution.
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the cream and fruits evenly.
Notes
Fresh vs. Canned Fruit: While this recipe uses canned fruits for convenience and a nod to tradition, feel free to use fresh fruits for a brighter flavor. Adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruits used.
Make Ahead: Ambrosia Salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for gatherings. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fruits, nuts, and even the addition of yogurt or citrus zest to the cream mixture for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Keyword Ambrosia Salad, Fruit Salad, Holiday Side Dish, Picnic Salad, Potluck Favorite