Ingredients
Cream Base
- 8 ounces Cool Whip (completely thawed)
- ½ cup sour cream (or yogurt)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
Fruit and Add-ins
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 can (15 ounces) mandarin oranges (well drained)
- 1 can (8 ounces) pineapple tidbits (well drained)
- 1 cup stemless maraschino cherries (well drained, plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (plain white or colored)
Nuts (Optional)
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional, plus more for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Cream Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cool Whip, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Fold in Ingredients: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the shredded coconut, drained mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, stemless maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, and chopped pecans if using. Make sure all ingredients are evenly combined without breaking up the fruit.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad overnight, or for at least 8 hours. This allows flavors to meld and the salad to set perfectly.
- Garnish: Before serving, garnish the salad with additional chopped pecans and stemmed maraschino cherries to add a decorative touch and extra texture.
- Serve: Scoop the chilled Ambrosia Salad into bowls or onto plates and enjoy this sweet and creamy fruit delight.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute sour cream with low-fat yogurt.
- Ensure fruits are well drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
- Marshmallows add sweetness and texture but can be omitted if preferred.
- Chilling overnight improves flavor melding and texture.
- Optional pecans add a nice crunch, but can be left out for nut allergies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
