Ambrosia fruit salad is a classic, creamy dessert salad that combines a variety of fruits with a fluffy, sweet base.

This delightful dish is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or as a refreshing treat on a warm day. Below is a simple recipe to create your own ambrosia fruit salad.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt (or one 5.3 oz container)
  • 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1/3 cup unsalted pistachios (or chopped pecans)
  • 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges (drained well)
  • 1 jar (12 oz) maraschino cherries (drained, dried, and cut in half)
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Whipped Cream:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Using an electric hand mixer, beat on low speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-4 minutes depending on the temperature of the cream.
  2. Combine the Base:
    • Gently fold in the vanilla yogurt, coconut flakes, and lemon zest (if using) into the whipped cream mixture using a wooden spoon or spatula.
  3. Add Fruits and Nuts:
    • Stir in the mini marshmallows and pistachios or pecans. Then, add the mandarin oranges, cherries, and pineapple chunks. Mix until everything is well combined.
  4. Chill:
    • Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the ambrosia salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or dessert.

Tips for Success

  • Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared several hours in advance or even the day before serving. However, for best results, consider adding marshmallows just before serving to maintain their texture.
  • Fruit Variations: Feel free to customize your ambrosia by adding other fruits such as grapes or bananas according to your preference.
  • Storage: Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ambrosia fruit salad is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Its creamy sweetness makes it a crowd favorite at any gathering! Enjoy making this classic dish that has been cherished for generations.

What are some variations of the ambrosia fruit salad recipe

Ambrosia fruit salad is a versatile dish that can be customized in numerous ways to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some popular variations to consider:

Fruit Variations

  • Fresh Fruits: Instead of relying solely on canned fruits, you can incorporate fresh options such as:
    • Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a burst of flavor and color.
    • Bananas: Sliced bananas provide a creamy texture.
    • Peaches: Fresh or canned peaches can introduce a sweet, juicy element.
    • Grapes: Halved green or red grapes add crunch and sweetness.
  • Canned Fruits: While traditional ambrosia often includes canned mandarin oranges and pineapple, you can also use:
    • Fruit Cocktail: A mix of various fruits for added variety.
    • Tangerines: Fresh tangerines can replace mandarin oranges for a different citrus flavor.

Base Variations

  • Creamy Bases:
    • Sour Cream: Adding sour cream gives a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the fruits and marshmallows.
    • Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and a slight tartness while boosting protein content.
    • Cool Whip or Whipped Topping: A common choice for a lighter texture without the need for whipping cream.
    • Cream Cheese: Mixing softened cream cheese with whipped cream creates a rich and decadent base.
  • Sweeteners:
    • Adjust the sweetness by adding more powdered sugar or using flavored mini marshmallows to enhance the overall taste.

Nut Variations

  • Different Nuts: Instead of pecans, you can use walnuts or pistachios for a unique crunch. Some recipes even suggest omitting nuts altogether for those with allergies or preferences.

Themed Variations

  • Berry Ambrosia Salad: Focus on fresh berries combined with whipped cream and coconut for a lighter summer dessert.
  • Green Ambrosia Salad: Incorporate pistachio pudding mix for a vibrant green color, often referred to as “Watergate Salad”.

Additional Ingredients

  • Consider adding ingredients like shredded carrots or even Jell-O for an unexpected twist. Some variations include cottage cheese for added protein and texture.

These variations allow you to personalize your ambrosia fruit salad, making it suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive holiday meal. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations to find your perfect blend!

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