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Easter Ambrosia: A Creamy, Nostalgic Holiday Dessert Recipe


  • Author: anna
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Easter Ambrosia is a creamy, nostalgic fruit salad perfect for springtime celebrations. Made with a mixture of Cool Whip and sour cream, it combines mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and nuts for a delightful, sweet, and tangy dish that’s best served chilled.


Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 1 cup Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream)
  • ½ cup sour cream

Fruit and Additional Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
  • ½ cup maraschino cherries, halved and drained
  • ½ cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, stir together Cool Whip and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating the creamy foundation for the salad.
  2. Add the Fruit and Mix: Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, halved maraschino cherries, and shredded coconut to preserve the texture of the fruit while mixing everything evenly.
  3. Add the Marshmallows and Nuts: Stir in the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans or walnuts, if using. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy base.
  4. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ambrosia for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy this sweet, creamy dish.

Notes

  • ✔ Drain the Fruit Well – Excess liquid can make the salad runny and affect the texture.
  • ✔ Use Fresh Whipped Cream – For a fluffier texture and homemade taste, consider making your own whipped cream.
  • ✔ Let It Chill – Refrigerating the ambrosia for at least an hour blends the flavors and enhances taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Easter dessert, Ambrosia salad, fruit salad, creamy dessert, holiday side dish, spring recipes