Description
Classic Ambrosia Salad is a creamy, sweet fruit salad featuring a delightful mix of mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries blended with sour cream and whipped topping. This refreshing no-cook dessert is perfect for gatherings and potlucks, offering a nostalgic taste with an easy preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed until easily spreadable
Fruit and Mix-ins
- 1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 (8 ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate the whipped topping: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping into the sour cream mixture, ensuring it blends evenly without deflating the whipped topping.
- Add fruits and mix-ins: Carefully fold in the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries using a spatula to evenly distribute all ingredients without crushing the fruit.
- Chill and serve: Although you can serve immediately, cover the bowl and refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly before serving.
Notes
- Be sure to drain the canned fruit well to prevent excess liquid from watering down the salad.
- For best texture, fold ingredients gently to maintain fruit shape and whipped topping fluffiness.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be made several hours in advance.
- Variations can include adding chopped nuts or substituting fresh fruit for the canned versions.
