AMBROSIA MARSHMALLOW FRUIT SALAD

 

Ambrosia Marshmallow Fruit Salad: A Classic Sweet Side That Never Goes Out of Style

If you're looking for a light, fluffy, and nostalgic dish that brings smiles to every table, you can’t go wrong with Ambrosia Marshmallow Fruit Salad. This creamy, dreamy dessert salad has been a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday dinners for generations — and for good reason.

With its mix of colorful fruit, soft marshmallows, and sweet, tangy creaminess, ambrosia is more than just a salad — it’s a little bowl of joy. Whether you're serving it at Easter, Thanksgiving, a summer BBQ, or just because, this retro favorite is always a hit.

---

🌈 What is Ambrosia Salad, Anyway?

"Ambrosia" literally means "food of the gods," and once you take a bite, you’ll understand why. This Southern-born salad is a chilled, dessert-style fruit salad typically made with:

• Whipped topping or sour cream

• Mini marshmallows

• A mix of canned and fresh fruits

• Optional extras like coconut, nuts, or maraschino cherries

Sweet, creamy, and a little bit fruity — it hits every note of comfort and nostalgia.

---

🍒 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for a classic Ambrosia Marshmallow Fruit Salad:

• 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (or use whipped topping for a sweeter version)

• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

• 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained

• 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks or tidbits, drained

• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry

• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

• 1 banana, sliced (optional, add just before serving to prevent browning)

---

🥣 Instructions

1. Combine the ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, gently stir together the sour cream (or whipped topping), mini marshmallows, coconut, and chopped nuts (if using).

2. Add the fruit
   Carefully fold in the drained oranges, pineapple, cherries, and banana slices (if using). Mix until everything is evenly coated.

3. Chill
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight). This helps the flavors meld and the marshmallows soften slightly.

4. Serve cold
   Give it a gentle stir before serving. Garnish with extra cherries, coconut, or nuts if you’d like!

---

💡 Tips & Variations

• Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or whipped topping.

• Make it sweeter: Add a drizzle of honey or use sweetened whipped topping.

• Kid-friendly version: Skip the nuts and add colorful mini marshmallows for extra fun.

• Holiday twist: Add pomegranate seeds, dried cranberries, or a splash of vanilla extract.

---

🎉 Perfect for Every Occasion

Ambrosia Salad is the ultimate “anytime” dish:

• Great for Thanksgiving, Easter, Christmas, and picnics

• Works as a side, dessert, or even a sweet brunch addition

• Easy to make ahead of time (and it tastes better the next day!)

---

💬 Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully old-fashioned and comforting about Ambrosia Marshmallow Fruit Salad. It's the kind of dish that brings generations together — simple, sweet, and served with love. Whether you're reliving memories from Grandma's kitchen or starting a new family tradition, this salad is sure to become a favorite.

So grab a big spoon, dive in, and don’t be surprised when the bowl is scraped clean. After all, this is the food of the gods.