Description
Look, I know what you’re thinking. “Ambrosia salad? Isn’t that some weird 70s thing my grandma made?” And you’re not wrong, but hear me out. This fluffy, creamy, marshmallow-packed bowl of pure joy is having a major comeback, and honestly? It deserves it. We’re talking about a cloud-like mix of tropical fruits, whipped cream, coconut, and mini marshmallows that somehow tastes like childhood memories and Sunday dinners all rolled into one. It’s part dessert, part side dish, and 100% comfort food magic. Plus, it’s literally called “food of the gods” in Greek mythology, so we’re basically eating divine intervention here.
Ingredients
For the Creamy Base:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 8 oz Cool Whip if you’re feeling convenient)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Fruity Fun:
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (save that juice for smoothies!)
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
- 2 cups seedless grapes, halved
- 1 large apple, cored and diced (Honeycrisp or Gala work great)
For the Fluff Factor:
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional but recommended)
Instructions
If you’re making fresh whipped cream (and you should!), whip that heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Don’t go crazy — we want fluffy, not butter.
Gently fold in the sour cream. This is your creamy cloud base.
Drain all your canned fruits really well — nobody wants a watery salad.
Dice that apple into bite-sized pieces. Pro tip: toss it with a little lemon juice if you’re not serving immediately.
Halve those grapes and cherries. Trust me, whole grapes are a choking hazard and whole cherries are just awkward.
In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together your creamy base with all the fruits.
Add the marshmallows, coconut, and nuts. Mix everything with a light hand — we’re folding, not stirring aggressively.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
The marshmallows will soften slightly, the flavors will meld, and everything becomes this perfect, dreamy texture.
Give it one final gentle stir before serving.
Serve in a pretty bowl or individual glasses for that fancy factor.
Notes
Perfect alongside holiday ham, fried chicken, or any Southern-style spread.
Serve it as dessert with some vanilla wafers on the side.
Great for brunch buffets — it’s sweet but not too heavy.
Pack it for picnics in a cooler — it travels like a champ.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Fat: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Protein: ~2g