Classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe with Fresh Fruit & Coconut

Ambrosia Salad is a simple, one‑bowl dessert that combines pineapple, mandarin oranges, coconut, and miniature marshmallows in a light, creamy dressing. It’s quick to prepare and makes a lovely addition to family meals, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

If you enjoy classic fruit salads, you might also like other nostalgic recipes such as Jello Salad, Watergate Salad, or Snickers Salad.

Ambrosia Salad Ingredients

Substitutions and Additions

Nuts: Omit the walnuts if you prefer, or substitute slivered almonds or pecans to suit your taste.

Whipped topping: You can use stabilized homemade whipped cream instead of store‑bought whipped topping for a fresher flavor and texture.

Cream cheese: If you’d like a lighter option, replace the cream cheese with vanilla yogurt or plain Greek yogurt—the salad will still be creamy.

Fruit: Add a can of fruit cocktail or fresh fruit like grapes for more variety.

Marshmallows: Use classic white mini marshmallows or colorful rainbow minis to make the salad more festive.

How to Make This Ambrosia Salad

Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the room‑temperature cream cheese on low speed until smooth.

Pro tip: Allowing the cream cheese to come to room temperature helps avoid lumps and gives a silkier dressing.

Step 2: Fold in the whipped topping in three additions, mixing gently on low speed or folding by hand until combined.

Step 3: Gently stir in the mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, halved cherries, shredded coconut, and marshmallows.

Pro tip: Mix carefully so you don’t break up the fruit pieces.

Step 4: Spoon the salad into a serving bowl and garnish with chopped walnuts and extra cherries if desired.

Pro tip: Chill the salad for a few hours if possible—this lets the flavors meld and improves the texture.

How to Serve

Ambrosia Salad is a versatile side or dessert that works well at picnics, potlucks, and holiday meals. Serve it chilled alongside savory dishes or with a cold glass of iced tea for a refreshing finish to any meal.

Storage

In the fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days.

In the freezer: Freezing is not recommended; the marshmallows and creamy dressing do not hold up well after thawing.

Ambrosia Salad is a classic for a reason: its creamy dressing and tropical mix of mandarin oranges, pineapple, cherries, coconut, and marshmallows make it a crowd‑pleasing favorite for both kids and adults.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store ambrosia salad?

Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container; it will stay fresh for a few days.

Can I add other fruit to this recipe?

Yes. Grapes, fruit cocktail, or diced apples can be added for extra variety and texture.

Can I leave out the coconut?

Absolutely—omit the coconut if you or your guests prefer.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies
• Banana Pudding Pie
• Peanut Butter Cookies
• Banana Pudding Cake