A timeless classic, Ambrosia Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors. This version ditches the Cool Whip for a rich and silky mixture of real whipped cream and sour cream, making it an irresistible addition to any holiday table. Bursting with mandarin oranges, pineapple, coconut, grapes, marshmallows, and maraschino cherries, every bite is a delicious balance of textures and flavors. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or summer gatherings, this no-bake, easy-to-make treat is a nostalgic favorite that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert or a sweet side dish, this Ambrosia Salad is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup mandarin orange slices, drained
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits, drained
- 1 cup fresh green (or red) seedless grapes, halved if large
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- ½ cup chopped toasted pecans
- 1 (8.25 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and rinsed
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- Add the mini marshmallows, mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, grapes, coconut flakes, and toasted pecans. Mix well with a rubber spatula.
- Carefully stir in the maraschino cherries, ensuring they don’t bleed into the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chilling Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 387 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
The History of Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia Salad dates back to the late 19th century in the southern United States. The name “Ambrosia” comes from Greek mythology, where it referred to the “food of the gods.” This name is fitting, given the salad’s sweet, luscious ingredients. The earliest versions were simple, typically made with layers of fresh oranges, coconut, and sugar. Over time, the recipe evolved to include additional fruits, mini marshmallows, nuts, and whipped cream or sour cream.
By the mid-20th century, Cool Whip became a popular shortcut for making Ambrosia Salad. However, while it provided convenience, it also introduced artificial ingredients that diluted the fresh, natural flavors of the dish. Today, many home cooks are returning to the original method of using freshly whipped cream for a more authentic and satisfying taste.
Why Make Ambrosia Salad Without Cool Whip?
While Cool Whip is a convenient option, there are several reasons why using real whipped cream and sour cream makes this dish so much better:
1. Superior Flavor
Cool Whip contains artificial stabilizers and sweeteners, which can give the salad a slightly artificial taste. Freshly whipped cream has a natural richness that enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness, creating a more luxurious flavor profile.
2. Better Texture
Fresh whipped cream provides a smooth, airy texture that blends perfectly with the fruits and marshmallows. Sour cream adds a slight tanginess, balancing out the sweetness of the dish. This results in a more dynamic and enjoyable texture compared to the slightly dense consistency of Cool Whip-based versions.
3. Healthier Ingredients
Using real whipped cream and sour cream eliminates the need for hydrogenated oils and artificial additives found in store-bought whipped toppings. While this dish is still indulgent, opting for fresh ingredients makes it a better choice for those who prefer to avoid processed foods.
4. Customizable and Adaptable
This homemade version allows you to control the level of sweetness and richness. You can add more or less sugar, adjust the amount of fruit, or even incorporate healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Variations of Ambrosia Salad
One of the best things about Ambrosia Salad is its versatility. Depending on your preferences or dietary needs, you can tweak the recipe in many ways:
1. Nut-Free Version
If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the chopped pecans. The salad will still be delicious without them!
2. Yogurt-Based Ambrosia
For a lighter alternative, replace the whipped cream with Greek yogurt. This will still provide a creamy texture but with added protein and probiotics.
3. Tropical Ambrosia
Enhance the tropical flavors by adding sliced bananas, diced mangoes, or even passion fruit pulp for a more exotic twist.
4. Chocolate Lover’s Ambrosia
For a unique dessert, mix in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted dark chocolate over the salad for a sweet, decadent variation.
5. Vegan Ambrosia
To make this dish dairy-free, use coconut whipped cream instead of heavy cream and swap the sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
Tips for Making the Best Ambrosia Salad
To ensure that your Ambrosia Salad turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
1. Whip the Cream Properly
Make sure your heavy cream is cold before whipping it. Using a chilled bowl and beaters can also help achieve stiff peaks faster. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn into butter.
2. Drain the Fruits Well
Excess moisture from canned fruit can make the salad too watery. Always drain the mandarin oranges and pineapple tidbits thoroughly before mixing them in. If possible, pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Prevent Cherry Bleeding
Maraschino cherries can sometimes release their red dye into the dressing, turning it pink. To prevent this, rinse them thoroughly under cold water and let them dry on a paper towel before adding them to the salad.
4. Chill Before Serving
Letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. This resting period enhances the overall taste and texture.
5. Customize the Sweetness
Depending on your preference, you can adjust the sugar level. Since marshmallows and canned fruit are already sweet, some people prefer to reduce or even omit the added sugar.
How to Serve Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia Salad is best served cold and is a perfect addition to any holiday feast or potluck. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a Side Dish – Serve it alongside roasted turkey, ham, or other traditional holiday mains for a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
- As a Dessert – Enjoy it as a light, refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.
- In Individual Cups – For a stylish presentation, serve Ambrosia Salad in small parfait cups, topped with a sprinkle of coconut or a cherry on top.
- With Pound Cake or Waffles – For an indulgent twist, serve a scoop over a slice of pound cake or waffles.
Conclusion:
Ambrosia Salad is a beloved classic that brings nostalgia and joy to every table it graces. This version, made without Cool Whip, captures the true essence of the dish with its rich, creamy texture and fresh, natural flavors. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
By using real whipped cream and sour cream, draining the fruit properly, and following the expert tips above, you’ll create an Ambrosia Salad that’s both delicious and unforgettable. Enjoy this timeless dish and share it with those you love!
