Ambrosia Creamy Fruit Salad (Printable)

Creamy blend of pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and coconut for a cool classic side.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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, mandarin oranges, grapes, and cherries if using.
02 - Add the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and nuts if using.
03 - Gently fold in the sour cream and whipped topping until all ingredients are evenly coated.
04 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
05 - Stir gently before serving. Serve chilled.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in minutes but tastes like you've been cooking all day.
  • The texture is pure comfort—creamy, fruity, and just sweet enough without feeling heavy.
  • It's the one dish that satisfies both the "I want something fresh" and "I want something indulgent" crowds at the same meal.
02 -
  • Drain your canned fruit thoroughly—it sounds obvious, but watery Ambrosia is a sad Ambrosia, and there's no fixing it after the fact.
  • Don't add fresh fruit like bananas or apples until right before serving, or they'll brown and the whole bowl tastes like oxidation instead of celebration.
03 -
  • Make it the day before a gathering—it's a gift to your future self and the flavors genuinely improve as it sits.
  • If your guests include people avoiding dairy, prepare a batch with Greek yogurt and coconut cream instead; it's lighter and just as delicious.
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