Ambrosia Salad Recipe with Cool Whip: A Classic Dessert Salad for Every Occasion
Growing up, this Ambrosia Salad was always the highlight of family gatherings. Grandma would whip it up with love, and we’d all gather around, eager for that first creamy, fruity bite. It’s the perfect mix of tropical flavors, soft marshmallows, and a cool, fluffy texture. Whether for a picnic, holiday table, or just a sweet treat, this recipe will bring back cherished memories. Try it and let the flavors take you back!
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 15 oz. mandarin oranges, drained
- 20 oz. pineapple chunks, drained
- 12 oz. maraschino cherries, drained
- ¾ cup (6 oz.) vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 8 oz. Cool Whip, thawed
- Chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Drain the fruits – Remove as much juice as possible to avoid a watery salad. Check cherries for stems.
2️⃣ Mix it up – In a large bowl, combine the drained fruits, yogurt, coconut, and marshmallows.
3️⃣ Fold in the Cool Whip – Gently mix to keep it light and fluffy.
4️⃣ Chill – Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4) before serving.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy – Stir before serving and sprinkle with pecans for a crunch!
Notes
- Drain Fruits Well: Excess liquid can make the salad watery, so take your time draining the fruits.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with flavored Cool Whip, such as Birthday Cake or Coconut, for a fun twist.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
- Nuts: Add pecans just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal per serving
- Sugar: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g