Go Back Email Link

Ambrosia Fruit Salad

This Southern-style Ambrosia Fruit Salad is creamy, fruity, and oh-so-easy to make! Packed with tropical fruits, marshmallows, and whipped cream, it's a nostalgic no-bake dessert everyone will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time:10 minutes
Chill Time:1 hour
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Southern American
Keyword: Ambrosia Fruit Salad, Easy Fruit Salad, No-Bake Dessert
Servings: 4 Servings

Ingredients

  • 10 ounces of mandarin orange segments thoroughly drained
  • 13 ounces of drained pineapple chunks
  • ⅔ cup maraschino cherries sliced in halves and well-drained
  • ⅔ cup whipped topping store-bought or homemade
  • 2½ tablespoons of sour cream
  • ⅔ cup of mini marshmallows
  • ⅓ cup of flaked or shredded coconut
  • Optional: ¼ cup of finely chopped pecans for added crunch

Instructions

  • Thoroughly drain all canned fruits and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the Cool Whip and sour cream until smooth and fluffy.
  • Carefully fold in the pineapple, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and optional pecans.
  • Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.
  • Garnish with extra cherries or toasted coconut for an added touch before serving.

Notes

  • Toasting the coconut adds a nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
  • Ambrosia Fruit Salad can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Do not freeze—texture will not hold after thawing.