Description

Classic Ambrosia Salad is a light and creamy dessert salad made with whipped topping, fruit, coconut, and mini marshmallows. It’s a family favorite for Easter, Thanksgiving, or summer cookouts – sweet, simple, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

1 cup sour cream
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks or tidbits, drained
1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
3/4 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Mix the base:
In a large bowl, gently fold together sour cream and whipped topping until smooth and combined.
Add the mix-ins:
Add mandarin oranges, pineapple, cherries, marshmallows, coconut, and nuts (if using). Gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to let the flavors meld and the salad thicken slightly.

Serve:
Stir before serving and garnish with extra cherries or coconut if desired. Serve chilled.

Notes

You can lighten it up with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Add grapes, bananas, or fresh strawberries for extra fruitiness.

Make it ahead — it gets even better after a few hours in the fridge!