Description
A classic Ambrosia Fruit Salad combining creamy cream cheese and whipped topping with sweet mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, shredded coconut, and marshmallows. This refreshing, no-cook dessert salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 8 ounces whipped topping
Fruit Ingredients
- 15 ounces mandarin oranges, drained
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
- 12 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and cut in half (plus more for garnish)
Add-ins & Garnish
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup marshmallows
- Chopped walnuts, for optional garnish
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese on low speed until it becomes smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Incorporate Whipped Topping: Gradually add the whipped topping in three parts, mixing gently on low speed to combine without deflating the topping.
- Add Fruits and Mix-ins: Stir in the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, halved maraschino cherries, shredded coconut, and marshmallows until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the mixture into a serving bowl and optionally garnish with chopped walnuts and additional maraschino cherries for decorative appeal.
Notes
- Ensure all fruit is well drained to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
- This salad is best served chilled; refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for improved flavor and texture.
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or leave nuts out for a nut-free version.
- For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping.
- Marshmallows may melt slightly over time, so consume shortly after preparation for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ambrosia salad, fruit salad, creamy fruit salad, no-cook dessert, marshmallow salad, holiday salad
