If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both nostalgic and incredibly easy to make, Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad is the answer. This creamy, fruity salad has been a beloved staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday dinners for generations. With its light, fluffy texture and delightful mix of sweet flavors, it’s a dessert that brings smiles to everyone’s faces, young and old alike.
Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad combines a medley of fruit—think juicy mandarin oranges, tangy pineapple, and sweet maraschino cherries—folded into a cloud of whipped topping and mini marshmallows. It’s light, refreshing, and just sweet enough to satisfy any dessert craving. Best of all, it takes just minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those times when you need a quick, crowd-pleasing dish.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a summer barbecue or as a sweet treat at a holiday feast, this Ambrosia Salad is sure to be a hit. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through the years, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved classic.
Exciting Story:
The first time I made Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad was for a family reunion. I wasn’t sure how it would go over, but I wanted to bring something that everyone would enjoy. As soon as I set the bowl down on the table, it was like a magnet—everyone gravitated towards it! My husband couldn’t stop talking about how it reminded him of the ambrosia his grandmother used to make, and our kids loved the marshmallows and cherries. It’s become a regular request at family gatherings now, and I love that it’s such a simple way to bring a touch of nostalgia to the table.
Why This Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad is a Must-Try
Selling Points:
- Quick and Easy: Just mix and chill—this salad comes together in minutes.
- Classic Flavor: A nostalgic dessert with the perfect blend of fruity sweetness and creamy goodness.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a hit at any gathering.
- Versatile: Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, holidays, and any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.
How to Make Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad
Start by draining the pineapple and mandarin oranges well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed Cool Whip and sour cream, stirring until smooth and well combined. If you’re adding a touch of vanilla extract, now’s the time to mix it in.
Next, gently fold in the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, sweetened shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts if using. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the fruit intact and the mixture light and fluffy.
Finally, fold in the maraschino cherries, distributing them evenly throughout the salad. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled. This allows the flavors to meld together and the marshmallows to soften slightly.
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with additional cherries or a sprinkle of coconut if desired, and watch it disappear as your guests dig in!
Tips:
- Make It Ahead: This salad is even better when made the night before, giving the flavors more time to develop.
- Drain Well: Be sure to drain the fruit thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
- Garnish Ideas: Top with extra cherries, a sprinkle of nuts, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a festive touch.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Different Fruit: Try adding fruit cocktail, fresh berries, or diced peaches for a different twist.
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts if you prefer or have allergies in the group.
- Lighter Version: Use light Cool Whip and reduced-fat sour cream for a lighter version of this classic salad.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Low-Sugar: Opt for sugar-free Cool Whip and use unsweetened shredded coconut.
- Low-Fat: Substitute low-fat or fat-free sour cream and use a light or reduced-calorie whipped topping.
- Fresh Fruit: Use fresh pineapple and mandarin oranges instead of canned for a fresher, more natural taste.
Closing: And there you have it! Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad is a timeless treat that’s sure to bring a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Don’t forget to let us know how your salad turns out, and be sure to check out some of our other delicious dessert recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad in advance?
- Yes, this salad can be made the day before and refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
- Absolutely! Fresh fruit can be used for a more natural flavor, just be sure to drain any excess juice.
- How long does Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad last in the fridge?
- It will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, though it’s best enjoyed within the first 1-2 days.
- Can I freeze Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad?
- Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change when thawed.
- Is there a dairy-free option?
- You can use a dairy-free whipped topping and dairy-free yogurt in place of sour cream.
- What can I use instead of marshmallows?
- For a less sweet option, you can omit the marshmallows or replace them with chopped apples or grapes for added crunch.
- Can I add more fruit?
- Of course! Feel free to add your favorite fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even kiwi.
- What can I serve with Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad?
- It’s perfect on its own but pairs well with other desserts like cakes, pies, or a fruit platter.
Cool Whip Ambrosia Salad
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal1
hour10
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 1 (8-ounce) container of Cool Whip, thawed
1 cup 1 sour cream
1 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup 1 sweetened shredded coconut
1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 mini marshmallows
1/2 cup 1/2 chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1 1 (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
- Start by draining the pineapple and mandarin oranges well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed Cool Whip and sour cream, stirring until smooth and well combined. If you’re adding a touch of vanilla extract, now’s the time to mix it in.
- Next, gently fold in the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, sweetened shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts if using. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the fruit intact and the mixture light and fluffy.
- Finally, fold in the maraschino cherries, distributing them evenly throughout the salad. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled. This allows the flavors to meld together and the marshmallows to soften slightly.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with additional cherries or a sprinkle of coconut if desired, and watch it disappear as your guests dig in!
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