Coconut Ambrosia Salad is a nostalgic dessert salad that has been loved for generations. Light, creamy, fruity, and just a little nutty, it’s a classic dish that graced many family tables during holidays, potlucks, and Sunday dinners. With tropical pineapple, juicy mandarin oranges, sweet maraschino cherries, fluffy mini marshmallows, and the rich flavor of coconut, this simple no-bake dessert is a true comfort food.
Unlike heavy desserts, ambrosia salad has a refreshing sweetness balanced by a creamy base of sour cream. Some versions use whipped topping or yogurt, but the traditional recipe keeps it tangy, creamy, and perfectly balanced. The best part? It only takes a few minutes to make, then chills in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love Coconut Ambrosia Salad
- Quick and easy: Comes together in just minutes with no baking required.
- Perfect for gatherings: A family-friendly recipe that feeds a crowd.
- Make-ahead friendly: The flavors get even better as it chills.
- Customizable: Add or swap fruits, nuts, or cream bases to your taste.
- Timeless classic: A beloved dish that brings nostalgia and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this salad, you only need a few pantry-friendly items and canned fruit:
- 1 cup shredded coconut – sweetened or unsweetened, depending on your preference.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows – adds sweetness and fluffy texture.
- 1 cup mandarin oranges – canned and drained well.
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits – canned or fresh, but well-drained.
- ½ cup maraschino cherries (halved) – for color and sweetness.
- 1 cup sour cream – the creamy base that balances sweetness with tang.
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional) – adds crunch and nuttiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Fruits
- Drain the mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, and maraschino cherries thoroughly. Excess liquid can make the salad watery.
- Cut cherries in half for easier mixing and a more appealing presentation.
Mixing the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut, marshmallows, oranges, pineapple, and cherries.
- If using pecans, fold them in at this stage for crunch.
Adding the Creamy Base
- Gently fold in the sour cream, coating all ingredients evenly.
- Be careful not to overmix, as the fruits can break apart.
Chilling the Salad
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the marshmallows to soften.
Serving
- Serve chilled in small bowls or cups as a side dish or light dessert.
- Garnish with extra coconut flakes, cherries, or pecans for presentation.
Tips for the Best Coconut Ambrosia Salad
- Drain fruits well: Too much juice will make the salad runny.
- Use sour cream, not substitutes: Sour cream provides the perfect tang to balance sweetness. For a sweeter version, try half sour cream and half Cool Whip.
- Toast the coconut: Toasting shredded coconut in a dry skillet enhances its nutty flavor.
- Chill overnight: While 2 hours is enough, chilling overnight makes it creamier and better blended.
- Add texture: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds provide a nice crunch against the soft fruit and marshmallows.
Variations of Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia salad has been reinvented over the years with countless variations. Here are a few ideas to customize yours:
- Whipped Ambrosia: Use Cool Whip instead of sour cream for a sweeter, fluffier version.
- Yogurt Ambrosia: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy but lighter twist.
- Five-Cup Salad: A simplified ambrosia made with just five cups of coconut, marshmallows, pineapple, oranges, and sour cream.
- Tropical Ambrosia: Add bananas, mango, or papaya for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Ambrosia: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a fun surprise.
Occasions to Serve Coconut Ambrosia Salad
- Holiday dinners: A traditional favorite for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.
- Potlucks and picnics: Easy to transport and share.
- Sunday dinners: A nostalgic dessert that pairs with classic comfort meals.
- Summer gatherings: A cool and refreshing treat for warm days.
Storing Ambrosia Salad
- Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve with time, but the marshmallows may soften more after the second day.
- Freezing: Not recommended. The creamy base and fruit don’t thaw well.
- Serving leftovers: Stir gently before serving again, as juices may separate.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Sugars: 25 g
- Protein: 3 g
Values may vary depending on specific brands and ingredient choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, fresh fruit works beautifully. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces and remove excess juice to avoid a watery salad.
What’s the difference between ambrosia salad and fruit salad?
Fruit salad usually contains fresh fruit with a light dressing, while ambrosia salad includes coconut, marshmallows, and a creamy base like sour cream or whipped topping.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Ambrosia salad tastes best when made a few hours ahead or even the day before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together.
Can I substitute Cool Whip for sour cream?
Yes. Using Cool Whip will give the salad a sweeter, fluffier taste. For a balance, try half sour cream and half Cool Whip.
How do I prevent my ambrosia salad from becoming watery?
Drain all fruits thoroughly and avoid overmixing. Chilling the salad also helps the cream base thicken.
Can I make this salad without marshmallows?
Yes, but marshmallows add a unique sweetness and texture. If you prefer, you can replace them with dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.
Final Thoughts
Coconut Ambrosia Salad is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of culinary nostalgia. With its mix of tropical fruits, sweet marshmallows, creamy base, and coconut, it strikes the perfect balance between refreshing and indulgent. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a side dish or dessert, making it a timeless addition to any gathering.
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday table, bringing it to a potluck, or simply enjoying it as a family treat, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s quick, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable to suit your taste.