Name: Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe: 1 Joyful Taste
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz Cool Whip or whipped topping; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cans (11 oz each) mandarin oranges, drained; 2 cans (20 oz each) pineapple chunks, drained; 2 cups red or green grapes, halved; 20 oz maraschino cherries, drained and halved; 2 cups sweetened coconut flakes, toasted (optional); 4 cups mini marshmallows; 1½ cups chopped pecans, toasted; Zest of 1 orange; 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped (optional)

Creamy ambrosia salad deluxe has been a staple at my family gatherings for as long as I can remember. I still have vivid memories of its sweet, tangy aroma filling my grandmother’s kitchen during the holidays. It’s more than just a fruit salad; it’s a taste of nostalgia, a comforting hug in a bowl. This isn’t just any ambrosia; it’s the *deluxe* version, packed with a delightful mix of textures and flavors that always disappear first. If you’ve ever wondered, “what is ambrosia salad deluxe?”, it’s this decadent, creamy, and utterly satisfying fruit concoction. Finding the perfect creamy ambrosia salad recipe is like finding a treasure, and I’m thrilled to share mine with you. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe

This isn’t just another fruit salad; it’s a showstopper! Here’s why this recipe is a winner:

Incredible Taste: A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy with delightful fruity bursts and a hint of citrus.
Super Quick Prep: You can whip up this easy ambrosia salad with whipped cream in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy hosts.
Surprisingly Light: While creamy, it’s packed with fruit and uses a lighter base, making it a satisfying ambrosia salad side dish.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and canned fruits, making it an economical choice for feeding a crowd.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore the classic flavors and fun mix of textures.
Versatile Delight: This easy ambrosia salad with whipped cream is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just a simple weeknight treat.
Customizable: Easily adapt it to your preferences with the suggested variations.

Ingredients for Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe

Gathering the right ambrosia salad ingredients is key to this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic fruit salad shine:

16 oz Cool Whip or whipped topping – this forms the creamy base
1 cup sour cream – adds a lovely tang that balances the sweetness, making it a true ambrosia salad with sour cream and pineapple
2 cans (11 oz each) mandarin oranges, drained – for that essential citrusy burst
2 cans (20 oz each) pineapple chunks, drained – adds a tropical sweetness and texture
2 cups red or green grapes, halved – for a fresh, juicy bite
20 oz maraschino cherries, drained and halved – for a pop of color and sweetness
2 cups sweetened coconut flakes, toasted (optional) – adds a delightful nutty flavor and crunch, making it a creamy ambrosia salad with coconut
4 cups mini marshmallows – they soften beautifully to add a unique chewy texture
1½ cups chopped pecans, toasted – for a rich, nutty crunch that elevates the salad
Zest of 1 orange – brightens all the flavors
2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped (optional) – for extra freshness and berry flavor

Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe: 1 Joyful Taste - Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe - main visual representation

How to Make Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe

Ready to create the ultimate fruit salad? Follow these simple steps to assemble your delicious creamy ambrosia salad deluxe. While this recipe is no-cook for the main components, toasting the nuts and coconut adds a wonderful depth of flavor and texture. If you’re toasting, your oven will be preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 7 minutes.

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the 16 oz Cool Whip or whipped topping with the 1 cup sour cream. Fold them together until just combined and smooth – you want a light and fluffy base.
Step 2: Add the drained 2 cans (11 oz each) mandarin oranges, drained 2 cans (20 oz each) pineapple chunks, 2 cups red or green grapes, halved, and 20 oz maraschino cherries, drained and halved. If you’re using them, gently stir in the 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped, and the zest of 1 orange. Mix carefully to avoid breaking up the delicate fruit.
Step 3: Now, it’s time to add the texture! Gently fold in the 2 cups sweetened coconut flakes, toasted (optional), 4 cups mini marshmallows, and 1½ cups chopped pecans, toasted. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture. This is where the magic happens in this ambrosia fruit salad deluxe recipe.
Step 4: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better. This chilling time allows all the fantastic flavors to meld together beautifully and lets those marshmallows soften to perfection.
Step 5: Before serving your masterpiece, give the salad one last gentle stir. This ensures everything is perfectly combined and looks as appealing as it smells.
Step 6: Serve your delightful creamy ambrosia salad deluxe cold. It’s the perfect addition to any meal or gathering, and knowing how to make creamy ambrosia salad this well means you’re ready for any occasion!

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe

Want to elevate your ambrosia salad game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this best ambrosia salad recipe truly shine. These tips ensure a perfect texture and flavor every time!

Toast Your Add-ins: Don’t skip toasting the coconut flakes and pecans! It unlocks their nutty aroma and adds a satisfying crunch that canned versions just can’t match.
Drain Fruit Thoroughly: Excess liquid is the enemy of creamy salads. Make sure your canned fruits and cherries are well-drained to prevent a watery salad.
Gentle Folding is Key: Treat the whipped topping and fruit with care. Overmixing can break down the delicate ingredients and result in a mushy texture.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy ambrosia salad?

The magic lies in the combination of creamy elements and the way the flavors meld. For an old fashioned ambrosia salad with marshmallows feel, letting it chill overnight is crucial. This allows the marshmallows to soften and the fruits to infuse their juices into the creamy base. For more information on the history of such dishes, you can explore traditional food preparations.

Can I make creamy ambrosia salad deluxe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for stress-free entertaining. Assemble the salad up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. It’s ideal for planning your holiday ambrosia salad deluxe menu.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy ambrosia salad?

The biggest pitfall is a watery salad; always drain your fruit well! Also, avoid overmixing, which can make the texture less appealing. If you’re looking for an ambrosia salad no cool whip option, Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used, but adjust liquid carefully. You might find inspiration in alternative creamy dessert bases.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe

This versatile salad is a fantastic addition to any meal. For a true taste of the South, serve this southern ambrosia salad deluxe alongside classic barbecue dishes, fried chicken, or ham. It also makes a wonderful ambrosia salad side dish at potlucks and picnics, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier fare. For holiday gatherings, present it in a beautiful glass bowl as a centerpiece that guests will rave about. It’s also delightful as a light dessert, especially after a rich main course!

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe

This delightful fruit salad is a crowd-pleaser, and here’s a look at what makes this ambrosia salad dessert so satisfying. These figures are based on approximate serving sizes, offering a sweet treat without being overly heavy.

Serving Size: Approximately 1/2 cup
Calories: 210
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 50mg
Cholesterol: 5mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you opt for variations like using Greek yogurt or adding extra fruit.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe

Proper storage is key to keeping your delicious creamy ambrosia salad deluxe fresh and flavorful. Once you’ve finished serving, make sure any leftovers are cooled down promptly before storing.

Refrigeration: Transfer any remaining salad to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. This allows the flavors to continue melding, making it even tastier!
Freezing: While not ideal for the freshest texture, you can freeze this salad for longer storage. Pack it into a freezer-safe container and it should last up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the marshmallows might become a bit firmer after thawing.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary. Simply bring it out of the refrigerator about 10-15 minutes before serving. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying. Exploring ambrosia salad variations can also offer different storage possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe

What is the history behind ambrosia salad?

The origins of ambrosia salad trace back to the late 19th century in the United States, often appearing in cookbooks around the 1890s. Named after the food of the gods in Greek mythology, it was initially simpler, featuring oranges and sometimes almonds. Over time, as ingredients became more accessible, particularly canned fruits and marshmallows, the recipe evolved into the richer, creamier versions we know and love today. You can learn more about the evolution of classic dishes.

Is this a vintage ambrosia salad recipe?

This recipe is inspired by ambrosia salad recipe vintage classics but with a deluxe twist! While it includes traditional elements like marshmallows and a creamy base, the addition of toasted nuts, fresh fruit options, and orange zest elevates it. It captures the nostalgic charm of older recipes while offering a more complex and satisfying flavor profile that appeals to modern palates.

Can I make a dairy-free or vegan version of this creamy ambrosia salad?

Yes, you can definitely adapt this recipe! For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free whipped topping and substitute the sour cream with a plain, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (like coconut or soy-based). Ensure your marshmallows are vegan, as traditional ones contain gelatin. The resulting creamy ambrosia salad deluxe will still be delicious and refreshing.

What makes this deluxe compared to a standard ambrosia salad?

The “deluxe” in this creamy ambrosia salad deluxe comes from the thoughtful additions that enhance both flavor and texture. Toasted nuts and coconut flakes provide a delightful crunch and nutty depth, while fresh fruit and orange zest add brightness and complexity. These elements transform a simple fruit salad into a truly special dish, far beyond a basic fruit mix.

Variations of Creamy Ambrosia Salad Deluxe You Can Try

This classic fruit salad is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ambrosia salad variations to explore, ensuring there’s a perfect version for everyone. You can easily customize this dish to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

Tropical Paradise: Swap the mandarin oranges for diced mango and add a splash of passionfruit pulp for an exotic twist. This variation enhances the tropical notes already present in the pineapple.
Berry Bliss: For a vibrant, antioxidant-rich option, replace the mandarin oranges and strawberries with a mix of fresh blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. This creates a stunning visual and a delightful tartness.
Diet-Conscious Creamy Ambrosia: If you’re watching your sugar or fat intake, try using plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and unsweetened coconut flakes. This lightens up the salad beautifully.
Nut-Free Delight: For those with nut allergies, simply omit the pecans and consider adding toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas for a similar crunch. This ensures everyone can enjoy a version of this ambrosia salad with mandarin oranges and cherries.