Ambrosia Salad With Fruit Cocktail

I still remember sitting at my grandmother’s kitchen table on a warm afternoon, watching her stir together a big bowl of Ambrosia Salad.

The air smelled like sweet pineapple and whipped cream, and the bright cherries on top always made me smile.

Every spoonful tasted like celebration—creamy, fruity, and soft, with a mix of juicy bites and tiny bursts of marshmallow sweetness.

This ambrosia salad with fruit cocktail carries that same joy. It’s a bowl full of colors and textures that turn an ordinary moment into a treat worth slowing down for.

The cream wraps around every piece of fruit, balancing the tang of oranges with the richness of coconut and the light sweetness of cherries.

It’s the kind of dessert that feels both nostalgic and fresh. You don’t have to wait for a special occasion to enjoy it; a single bite is enough to make an ordinary day feel special.

Cool, creamy, and gently sweet, this salad tastes like the warmth of old memories mixed with the comfort of now.

Table of Contents

Ambrosia Salad With Fruit Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

1 can (15 ounces) fruit cocktail, drained well
1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
1 cup miniature marshmallows
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup whipped topping or freshly whipped cream
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
2 tablespoons chopped pecans or almonds (optional)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions

Begin by preparing all the fruits. Drain the fruit cocktail, pineapple chunks, and mandarin oranges thoroughly to remove excess syrup. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained fruit cocktail, pineapple chunks, and mandarin oranges. Gently toss them together so the fruits are evenly mixed.
Add the miniature marshmallows and sweetened shredded coconut to the bowl. Lightly fold the ingredients together using a spatula.
In a separate small bowl, mix the whipped topping and sour cream until smooth and creamy. This creates a perfectly balanced dressing with a light, fluffy texture and a slight tang.
Pour the creamy mixture over the fruit and marshmallow blend. Gently fold everything together until all pieces are evenly coated with the dressing.
If you prefer a sweeter flavor, sift in the powdered sugar and mix gently to incorporate.
For a little crunch, sprinkle in chopped pecans or almonds and mix once more.
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, cover it, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and the texture to set.
Just before serving, top with maraschino cherries and a light sprinkle of shredded coconut for a festive look.

What Is Ambrosia Salad With Fruit Cocktail Made Of?

Ambrosia salad with fruit cocktail is a creamy, sweet, and fruity dessert that mixes soft whipped cream with juicy canned fruits and mini marshmallows.

It’s known for its rich, refreshing flavor and colorful appearance that makes it perfect for family gatherings or holidays.

Fruit Cocktail: A mix of canned fruits like peaches, pears, grapes, and cherries gives the salad its juicy sweetness.
Pineapple Chunks And Mandarin Oranges: These add bright tropical notes and a little tang to balance the creamy texture.
Mini Marshmallows: Soft marshmallows make every bite light and pillowy.
Coconut: Sweet shredded coconut gives a chewy texture and tropical aroma.
Whipped Topping And Sour Cream: These two create the creamy base that holds the salad together.
Maraschino Cherries: They add color and a pop of sweetness on top.
Optional Nuts: Pecans or almonds bring a mild crunch for those who like texture in their desserts.

Why Is It Called Ambrosia Salad?

The name “Ambrosia” comes from ancient Greek mythology, where it meant the food of the gods. The salad earned this name because of its heavenly taste and beautiful appearance.

Heavenly Taste: The creamy sweetness with juicy fruits makes it rich and satisfying.
Colorful Look: The bright mix of cherries, oranges, and coconut gives it a vibrant, festive feel.
Classic Heritage: It became popular in American households as a symbol of celebration and togetherness.

Can I Use Fresh Fruits Instead Of Canned Fruits?

Yes, you can use fresh fruits if you prefer a natural flavor and firmer texture, but there are a few things to keep in mind for the best results.

Balance The Sweetness: Canned fruits are already sweetened, so if you’re using fresh fruits, you may need to add a spoonful of sugar or honey to match the taste.
Choose Juicy Fruits: Fresh pineapple, orange segments, grapes, and apple chunks work very well, but make sure they’re ripe and soft.
Remove Excess Water: Pat the fruits dry with a paper towel before adding them. This prevents the salad from becoming watery.
Avoid Overly Sour Fruits: Stay away from fruits like kiwi or green apples that can change the creamy balance.

What Type Of Cream Works Best In Ambrosia Salad?

The cream gives this salad its signature smooth texture and light sweetness, so the right choice matters.

Whipped Topping: This is the easiest option, providing a sweet, stable texture that holds up for hours in the fridge.
Freshly Whipped Cream: If you prefer a homemade touch, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form and lightly sweeten it with powdered sugar.
Sour Cream: Mixing sour cream with whipped topping balances sweetness with a slight tang, giving the salad a richer flavor.

How To Keep Ambrosia Salad From Getting Watery?

A watery salad can ruin its creamy texture. Follow these tips to keep it thick and luscious.

Drain Fruits Properly: Remove all liquid from canned fruits and pat them dry before mixing.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the salad helps the dressing set and keeps the fruits firm.
Add Marshmallows Last: Mix them in gently at the end so they don’t dissolve or release moisture.
Avoid Overmixing: Stir the ingredients just enough to combine; too much mixing breaks down the fruit.

Can I Make Ambrosia Salad Ahead Of Time?

Yes, ambrosia salad tastes even better when made in advance because the flavors blend beautifully over time.

Refrigeration Time: Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for the perfect texture.
Overnight Storage: You can prepare it a day ahead, but keep it in a sealed bowl to prevent dryness.
Add Toppings Later: Add cherries and nuts just before serving to keep them bright and crunchy.

How Long Can Ambrosia Salad Be Stored?

Proper storage helps the salad stay creamy and fresh without losing its flavor.

In The Refrigerator: Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir lightly before serving again to refresh the texture.
Avoid Freezing: Freezing will cause the cream to separate and fruits to become mushy once thawed.
Temperature Tip: Keep it chilled at all times, especially during summer or outdoor gatherings, to prevent the cream from softening.

What Can I Add To Make Ambrosia Salad More Flavorful?

You can easily personalize this salad with extra flavor and texture that fits your taste.

Add Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or almonds create a nutty crunch.
Mix In Mini Marshmallows: Use colorful marshmallows for a fun twist and extra sweetness.
Use Flavored Yogurt: Swap half of the whipped topping for fruit-flavored yogurt for a light, tangy kick.
Add A Sprinkle Of Cinnamon: Just a pinch of cinnamon gives a cozy warmth that complements the fruit.

Can I Serve Ambrosia Salad As A Dessert?

Absolutely. Ambrosia salad makes a wonderful light dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy.

After-Meal Treat: Its creamy and fruity flavor makes it perfect after spicy or savory meals.
Party Dish: Serve it chilled in small cups for birthdays, potlucks, or picnics.
Sweet Snack: It’s also great as a midday treat when you want something cool and refreshing.

Can I Serve Ambrosia Salad Warm Or Cold?

Ambrosia salad should always be served cold for the best texture and taste.

Chill Time: Keep it refrigerated for at least a couple of hours before serving.
Cool Serving Tip: Serve it in chilled bowls to maintain freshness.
Avoid Heat: Warmth can melt the cream and make the salad watery.