Oh sweet, sweet ambrosia! The word itself seems indicative of something absolutely delightful, delicious, and maybe even decadent — ambrosia in Greek literally means “immortality.” What better way to describe such a succulent and daring salad that’s been a favorite since the ‘50s and ‘60s?

While more common in the south, Ambrosia Salad has been a classic that might remind you of grandma’s home-cooked desserts. Not only are its myriad of colors eye-catching, but its flavors are nothing short of luxurious. It’s a spin on the fruit salad that can tickle your taste buds beyond bliss.

You can say that Ambrosia Salad is a culinary journey; you’ve got the bright and zesty tang of pineapple chunks made even more tropical by the subtle but unmistakable flavors of sweetened flaked coconut. Mandarin oranges, on the other hand, lend their pleasantly citrus aroma punctuated by an elegant mix of vanilla and spice in its flavor profile. Some nicely halved green grapes make for more than just a colorful accent — their tarty punch also complements the sour cream.

Maraschino cherries add some playfulness to your Ambrosia Salad with its candy-like taste and hints of almond. They’re more than a welcome partner to your soft and sweet mini marshmallows. Not to be forgotten are apple chunks — a staple of the classic fruit salad — that combines juicy sweetness with a pleasantly crisp texture.

Held together by the heavy cream mixture, a wonderfully made Ambrosia Salad is a surefire crowd-pleaser that sparks a bit of nostalgia in adults and the taste of new discovery in kids. Serve this dessert chilled for maximum enjoyment!

Ambrosia Salad

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Indulge your sweet tooth with the daring and succulent Ambrosia Salad!

• Author: Addie Gundry
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Desserts

Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 cups fresh pineapple
• 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained and separated
• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup green grapes, cut in half
• 1 small red apple, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut

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Instructions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the cream and confectioners’ sugar on medium speed until it holds stiff peaks. Whisk in the sour cream. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, oranges, cherries, grapes, apple chunks, marshmallows, and coconut.
3. Fold in the sour cream mixture and toss to combine.
4. Chill for 2 hours. Serve.

Have you made this salad? Do you prefer it as a dessert or as a side? Let us know in the comments.