Ambrosia Fruit Salad Classic (Printable Version)

A creamy fruit salad blending pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapes, marshmallows, and shredded coconut.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruits

01 - 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
02 - 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
03 - 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
04 - 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry (optional)

→ Creamy Base

05 - 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
06 - 1 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)

→ Mix-Ins

07 - 1½ cups mini marshmallows
08 - 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
09 - ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

# How to Prepare:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, halved grapes, and cherries if using.
02 - Incorporate the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and nuts if using, gently folding to combine.
03 - Carefully fold in the sour cream and whipped topping until all components are evenly coated.
04 - Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
05 - Gently stir before serving and serve chilled.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It comes together in less time than it takes to set the table, and theres no oven involved.
  • The combination of tangy fruit and sweet cream hits that nostalgic spot without feeling too heavy.
  • You can make it the night before and it actually gets better as it sits in the fridge.
02 -
  • If you dont drain the canned fruit well enough, the whole salad will turn watery and lose its creamy texture.
  • Let it chill for the full hour, the marshmallows need time to soften and the flavors need time to come together.
  • If youre adding bananas or apples, toss them in right before serving or theyll turn brown and mushy.
03 -
  • Use a rubber spatula to fold instead of stirring, it keeps the whipped topping from deflating.
  • If you want a little extra tang, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the fruit before mixing.
  • For a truly authentic touch, use the mini marshmallows, the regular-sized ones just dont melt into the mix the same way.
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