Tropical Ambrosia Salad Recipe – Easy Creamy Fruit Dessert

If you’ve ever found yourself craving a dessert that feels like sunshine in a bowl, this Creamy Tropical Ambrosia Salad is exactly what you need. This classic no-bake fruit salad has been loved for generations, and it’s easy to see why. With its vibrant colors, luscious texture, and the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, ambrosia salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration on a spoon.

I remember the first time I had ambrosia salad at a family barbecue when I was a kid. I was drawn to the colorful fruit—bright cherries, golden pineapple, and juicy mandarin oranges—and the mysterious fluffy texture that seemed to defy dessert logic. Was it a fruit salad? Was it a dessert? I didn’t care. I just knew I wanted seconds.

What makes this version extra special is how incredibly easy it is to throw together. You don’t need to turn on the oven, and the ingredient list is short and sweet—literally. Everything comes from your pantry or fridge, and the whole thing takes less than 15 minutes to prep. The magic happens while it chills in the fridge, where the flavors meld and the texture becomes dreamy and spoonable.

This tropical twist on the original ambrosia keeps all the classic elements—mini marshmallows, sour cream, and whipped topping—but adds in canned tropical fruits like pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries for a juicy, flavor-packed bite in every spoonful. The coconut adds that extra beachy vibe, while the marshmallows offer little pops of soft, sweet fun.

Whether you’re making it for a summer cookout, an Eid dessert spread, a weekend brunch, or just a Tuesday-night treat, this ambrosia salad delivers every time. It’s light, refreshing, and a little bit retro in the best possible way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this tropical ambrosia salad. First and foremost, it’s a dessert that requires almost no effort—no cooking, no baking, and barely any cleanup. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like you’re cheating because it turns out so beautifully with such little work.

One of the standout reasons this dish is so beloved is its delightful texture. The mini marshmallows soak up just enough moisture to become pillowy soft, while the sour cream and Cool Whip blend into a creamy, fluffy base that coats every piece of fruit. The shredded coconut adds a bit of chew and a gentle tropical flavor that takes it over the top.

This salad is also crowd-pleasing and kid-friendly. Even picky eaters can’t resist the sweet, creamy goodness. It’s colorful and festive, which makes it feel like a celebration every time you serve it. And since it’s served cold, it’s perfect for hot days when you just don’t want to turn on the stove.

Another reason to love this ambrosia salad is its versatility. You can make it ahead of time, and it only gets better the longer it chills. You can also tweak the ingredients based on your personal preferences—switch up the fruits, add nuts for crunch, or leave out the coconut if someone in your crew isn’t a fan.

Lastly, it’s budget-friendly. All the ingredients are affordable and easy to find at any grocery store. There are no fancy or hard-to-pronounce components, just good old-fashioned pantry staples and fridge favorites.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a comforting dessert to enjoy with your family, this creamy tropical ambrosia salad is the kind of recipe that checks every box.

Health Benefits

While ambrosia salad is a dessert, it does bring a few nutritional benefits to the table, especially thanks to the variety of fruits included. Each ingredient contributes something good, making this more than just a sweet treat.

First up, let’s talk about mandarin oranges. These little citrus gems are high in vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin vitality. They also contain fiber and antioxidants, which are essential for digestion and reducing inflammation. Since we’re using canned mandarins, they retain much of their nutritional value, especially when packed in juice rather than syrup.

Pineapple chunks, another tropical star of this dish, are rich in manganese and vitamin C as well. Pineapple also contains bromelain, a group of enzymes that aid digestion and may help reduce inflammation. Including pineapple in your diet—yes, even in dessert form—can be a tasty way to support your digestive system.

Maraschino cherries, while more indulgent and less nutrient-dense than fresh cherries, still contribute antioxidants and a burst of color and flavor. When enjoyed in moderation, they can be a fun, flavorful addition to your diet.

Shredded coconut adds healthy fats and fiber. While it’s sweetened, it still offers lauric acid, a type of saturated fat that may help support immune function. The texture also slows down digestion slightly, making the dessert feel more satisfying.

Then we’ve got sour cream and whipped topping. These bring a dose of calcium and protein, especially the sour cream. You can also swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to bump up the protein and add some probiotics to support gut health.

Overall, this dish offers a balance of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and energy. And while it is definitely indulgent, it’s not overly heavy. It satisfies a sweet craving without being overly rich or dense.

When served in moderation as part of a balanced meal, tropical ambrosia salad can be a light and enjoyable way to include fruit and dairy in your diet—especially for those who aren’t big fans of eating plain fruit.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Knowing how much time and effort a recipe takes can make all the difference when planning meals, especially if you’re short on time. The great news? This creamy tropical ambrosia salad is a time-saver and can be made with minimal prep.

Preparation Time:

• Hands-on Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: At least 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chill)

You can prepare this salad the night before an event, which makes it incredibly convenient. The longer it chills, the more the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious.

Servings:

• Serves: 6 to 8 people
• It’s easy to double or even triple this recipe for larger gatherings. It’s also easy to scale down if you’re only serving a few people.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 220
• Protein: 2 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Sugar: 24 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Calcium: 6% of daily value
• Vitamin C: 15% of daily value

These numbers are approximate and can vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used. You can also lighten it up by using light sour cream, low-fat whipped topping, or skipping the coconut.

For a slightly healthier twist, you could substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream, reduce the amount of marshmallows, or choose fruit canned in juice instead of syrup.

So not only is this dish quick and easy, it’s also flexible when it comes to your dietary needs and goals.

Ingredients List 

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your very own bowl of creamy tropical ambrosia salad. The ingredients are simple, affordable, and can often be found already in your pantry or refrigerator.

Fruits:

• 10 oz canned mandarin oranges (about 1 cup), drained
  Mandarin oranges bring a juicy, sweet-tart flavor to the salad. Make sure to drain them well so your salad doesn’t get watery.
• 10 oz canned pineapple chunks or tidbits (about 1 cup), drained
  Pineapple adds brightness and a tropical touch. Tidbits work best for bite-sized texture, but chunks are great if you want a more substantial bite.
• 10 oz maraschino cherries (about 1 cup), drained
  These add a pop of color and extra sweetness. Slice them in half if you want smaller pieces distributed throughout the salad.

Creamy Base:

• ½ cup sour cream
  This adds a subtle tang that balances out the sweetness of the fruit and marshmallows. Greek yogurt can be used instead if you prefer a lighter option with more protein.
• 1 cup Cool Whip whipped topping (thawed)
  The Cool Whip brings the fluff! It’s what makes this salad so light and creamy. Be sure to thaw it fully so it mixes smoothly.

Sweet Add-ins:

• 1 cup mini marshmallows
  These little guys soak up the moisture from the salad and turn into soft, sweet bites that feel almost like candy. White or rainbow mini marshmallows both work well.
• ¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut
  Coconut brings a chewy texture and mild tropical flavor. If you’re not a coconut fan, feel free to reduce or skip it.

Optional Additions:

• Crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch
• A splash of vanilla extract for warmth
• Fresh fruit, such as diced apples or grapes, if you want a mix of canned and fresh

Keep all ingredients chilled before assembling for the best texture and quickest chilling time.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Making ambrosia salad is as easy as 1-2-3, but each step matters to get the best texture and flavor. Here’s a detailed walkthrough with tips and options along the way to help you create the perfect bowl every time.

Step 1: Drain the Canned Fruits Thoroughly

Start by opening your cans of mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries.

Place a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl or your sink. Pour each fruit into the strainer one at a time, letting the juices drain completely. This step is very important.

Why? Excess liquid from the fruit can make the salad watery and dilute the creamy base. Let them sit for at least 5 minutes to ensure they are well-drained. You can also gently press them with a spoon to help the process along.

Once drained, set the fruit aside.

Step 2: Combine the Fruit in a Large Mixing Bowl

Grab a large mixing bowl—the biggest one you have—because this recipe makes a generous batch, and you’ll want plenty of room for mixing without spilling.

Add the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries to the bowl.

Tip: If the cherries are large, consider slicing them in half before adding to distribute their flavor more evenly.

Mix the fruit gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir slowly so you don’t break up the delicate mandarin orange slices.

Step 3: Add the Mini Marshmallows and Coconut

Next, toss in the mini marshmallows and sweetened shredded coconut.

Mix gently to coat the fruit with the marshmallows and coconut. At this point, the salad already starts to look festive and colorful.

Optional: If you like a little crunch, you could add in some chopped pecans or walnuts now. They bring a nice contrast to the softness of the marshmallows and fruit.

Step 4: Stir in the Sour Cream

Now add the sour cream to the bowl. Spoon it in gently over the fruit mixture.

Use a spatula to fold the sour cream into the salad. Folding means gently turning the mixture over on itself, rather than stirring vigorously. This helps keep the fruit whole and the marshmallows intact.

The sour cream adds a subtle tang that balances out all the sweetness from the fruit and marshmallows. It also helps bind the ingredients together into a cohesive, creamy salad.

If you’re using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, follow the same process.

Step 5: Fold in the Cool Whip

This is where the magic happens. Add the thawed Cool Whip on top of the mixture.

Using your spatula, gently fold the Cool Whip into the salad. This step is key to keeping the fluffy texture that makes ambrosia salad so special.

Take your time with this step. It should look light, creamy, and fluffy when everything is fully incorporated. The whipped topping will blend into the sour cream, coating the fruit and marshmallows in a silky cloud of sweetness.

Make sure you reach the bottom of the bowl as you fold so nothing gets left unmixed.

Step 6: Chill the Salad

Once everything is well combined and fluffy, it’s time to let the salad chill. This step is more important than it might seem, because it allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour. If you have more time, even better. You can make this salad several hours ahead or even the night before.

As it chills, the marshmallows will soften slightly and soak up some of the moisture, while the cream mixture thickens just enough to become perfectly spoonable. The result is a luscious, cold, creamy dessert with just the right balance of flavors and textures.

Step 7: Stir Before Serving

Right before serving, give the ambrosia salad a gentle stir to freshen it up and redistribute the creamy mixture. Sometimes the fruit and cream can settle a little, so this quick mix brings everything back together beautifully.

Use a large spoon or spatula and fold everything a few times. If the salad feels a little stiff from the cold, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes before stirring. It should loosen just enough to stir easily without losing its fluffiness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Now comes the best part—serving! You can scoop the ambrosia salad into a large serving bowl or spoon it into individual cups or ramekins for a more elegant presentation. It looks especially lovely topped with a few extra cherries or a sprinkle of coconut on top.

Optional Garnishes:

• A few whole maraschino cherries for color
• A dusting of shredded coconut
• Crushed pecans or walnuts for crunch
• Fresh mint leaves for a pop of green

That’s it! You’ve just made a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s perfect for just about any occasion. And all without turning on the oven.

How to Serve

There are so many fun and delicious ways to serve ambrosia salad, and depending on the occasion, you can dress it up or keep it super simple. Here are several ideas to help you make the most of this versatile treat.

Classic Family-Style Bowl

The most traditional way to serve ambrosia salad is in a big serving bowl in the center of the table. This is perfect for holidays, family dinners, and potlucks. Let everyone grab a spoon and help themselves. It’s casual, generous, and inviting.

Individual Dessert Cups

If you want to make the presentation a bit more elegant or fancy—maybe for a brunch, baby shower, or tea party—consider spooning the salad into individual cups. Glass dessert cups or parfait glasses work beautifully, letting the vibrant colors of the fruit shine through. Top each one with a cherry or a mint sprig for a pretty finish.

Kid-Friendly Fun

For birthday parties or family gatherings with kids, serve the ambrosia salad in small colorful bowls or fun silicone muffin cups. Kids love the fruity flavors and mini marshmallows, and the smaller servings help control portions.

As a Side or Dessert

Ambrosia salad is super flexible. You can serve it as a light dessert after a heavier meal, or offer it as a sweet side dish during brunch. It’s also a refreshing addition to any picnic or barbecue menu.

Serve It Cold

This dish is best served chilled, straight from the fridge. The cold temperature enhances the creaminess and keeps the fruit firm and fresh-tasting. If it’s been sitting out for more than 30 minutes on a warm day, pop it back in the fridge or a cooler for a bit before serving.

No matter how you serve it, this tropical ambrosia salad is always a hit—comforting, flavorful, and fun to eat.

Pairing Suggestions

Even though this is a sweet salad, ambrosia has a wonderfully light texture that makes it easy to pair with all kinds of dishes. Whether you’re building a brunch spread, a picnic basket, or a festive dinner table, here are some great ways to pair your ambrosia salad.

Perfect Pairings for Brunch

Ambrosia salad is a natural fit for brunch. It adds a light, fruity, and creamy element that balances out heavier dishes. Try pairing it with:

• Turkey bacon or halal chicken sausages for savory contrast
• Egg muffins or scrambled eggs to round out the protein
• Buttered toast or croissants to add a buttery, flaky bite
• Fresh squeezed orange juice or a mango smoothie for tropical harmony

Great with Picnic and Barbecue Foods

Because it’s served cold, ambrosia salad is ideal for picnics or barbecues. It offers a sweet, creamy balance to smoky and salty grilled foods. Pair it with:

• Grilled chicken kebabs or beef sliders for a flavorful meal
• Potato salad or pasta salad for that double-salad combo
• Corn on the cob or roasted vegetables for a summer feel
• Chilled lemonade or iced herbal tea to keep things refreshing

Festive Holiday Menus

During festive seasons like Eid, Ramadan, or other holiday gatherings, ambrosia salad can be a fun addition to the dessert table. Serve it alongside:

• Date and nut bars or basbousa for traditional sweet pairings
• Halal trifle or fruit custard for a colorful dessert spread
• Mint tea or saffron milk to complement the fruity notes

Light Dessert Pairings

If you’re serving ambrosia salad as dessert, you can pair it with other light sweets like:

• Angel food cake slices with a dollop of whipped cream
• Lemon or coconut cookies for a crunchy contrast
• Fresh fruit skewers to double up on juicy flavors

Ambrosia salad works beautifully as a palate cleanser or light finale after a spicy or savory meal. With its creamy texture and cool temperature, it leaves everyone feeling satisfied without being overly full.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this salad—aside from how easy and delicious it is—is how well it stores. In fact, many people agree that ambrosia salad tastes even better the next day after it’s had time to chill and develop flavor. Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Storing in the Refrigerator

Once the salad is mixed and chilled, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Important Tips:

• Keep it covered tightly to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.
• Give it a gentle stir before serving again, especially if it has been sitting for more than a day.
• If the salad appears watery (which can happen as fruit releases more juice), you can drain off a bit of liquid or fold in an extra spoonful of Cool Whip to refresh the texture.

Can You Freeze Ambrosia Salad?

Technically, yes—but with a few caveats.

You can freeze ambrosia salad, but freezing may change the texture slightly, especially of the marshmallows and fruits. When thawed, the fruit can become a bit mushy, and the creamy base may separate.

If you decide to freeze it:

• Place the salad in a freezer-safe container with a tight lid.
• Freeze for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge, not at room temperature.
• Stir well before serving to help re-incorporate the cream.

Reheating? Not Needed

Since ambrosia salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. In fact, warming it would ruin the creamy texture and make the salad watery and soft.

If the salad has been sitting out for a while (especially during a picnic or party), pop it back in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes before serving again. The chill brings back its signature texture and flavor.

For best results, enjoy within the first 48 hours after making it. That’s when the fruit is at its freshest and the cream is at peak fluffiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Even with a recipe as simple as ambrosia salad, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final taste and texture. The good news is that all of them are super easy to avoid once you know what to look out for. Let’s walk through the most frequent mistakes and how to fix—or better yet, prevent—them.

1. Not Draining the Fruit Properly

This is by far the most common mistake. If your fruit isn’t well-drained, all that excess liquid will leak into the creamy base and make your salad soupy. It can also cause the whipped topping to lose its fluffiness.

Solution: Use a fine mesh strainer and let the fruit sit for several minutes to drain completely. You can even pat the fruit gently with a paper towel to absorb extra moisture if needed.

2. Overmixing the Ingredients

While you do want everything well combined, overmixing can break down the delicate fruit—especially the mandarin oranges—and turn your salad into mush.

Solution: Fold gently. Use a spatula and turn the mixture over slowly rather than stirring vigorously. This keeps everything intact and preserves that light, airy texture.

3. Skipping the Chill Time

This dish truly shines after it’s been chilled. If you serve it immediately after mixing, it may taste okay, but it won’t have that luxurious texture or cohesive flavor.

Solution: Chill for at least one hour. If you can wait longer, two to four hours is even better. Overnight is ideal for making it ahead.

4. Adding Warm Ingredients

Using Cool Whip or sour cream straight from the counter instead of the fridge can cause the salad to become too loose and runny.

Solution: Always use cold ingredients. Keep the whipped topping in the fridge (not the freezer) and make sure your sour cream is well chilled before mixing.

5. Letting It Sit Too Long Uncovered

If your Tropical ambrosia salad is left uncovered in the fridge, it can absorb fridge odors and dry out around the edges.

Solution: Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This keeps the texture smooth and the flavor fresh.

By keeping these simple tips in mind, you’ll avoid any salad snafus and ensure your tropical ambrosia turns out perfect every single time.

Pro Tips

If you’ve never made Tropical ambrosia salad before—or even if you have but want to level up—these tips will help you get that picture-perfect bowl every single time. Here’s how to make your creamy tropical ambrosia even better, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

1. Let It Chill Overnight

While one hour of chilling is technically enough, the flavors truly deepen when the salad has more time to rest. Overnight chilling allows the marshmallows to soften, the coconut to absorb flavor, and everything to meld into one dreamy, creamy dessert.

Tip: Make it the night before a party or gathering to save yourself time and stress the day of.

2. Use Fruit Packed in Juice, Not Syrup

Canned fruit packed in syrup can make the salad overly sweet. Opting for fruit packed in its own juice gives you better control over the sweetness and keeps the dish feeling fresh.

Bonus: It’s a bit healthier, too.

3. Customize the Texture

Love a bit of crunch? Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or even crushed pistachios. Want even more chew? Throw in extra coconut or a handful of golden raisins.

Note: Always add crunchy ingredients just before serving so they don’t go soft in the fridge.

4. Boost the Cream Factor

If you want a thicker, even creamier base, consider adding a couple tablespoons of cream cheese (softened) to the mixture before folding in the Cool Whip. It adds richness and a slight tang without overpowering the fruit.

5. Presentation Matters

For special occasions, layer the salad into a trifle dish, alternating with layers of additional fruit or coconut. Or use individual glass jars or cups for a personalized touch.

A few garnishes can also take it from everyday to elegant. Try:

• A dusting of toasted coconut flakes
• A drizzle of honey
• A cherry or two on top of each serving

By following these pro tips, you’ll turn your tropical ambrosia salad into something that looks as amazing as it tastes—every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make ambrosia salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it’s even better when made ahead. You can make it the night before and let it chill in the fridge until ready to serve. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.

Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?

Yes, you can! Greek yogurt is a great alternative. It has a similar tang and creaminess but adds a little extra protein and probiotics. You can also use plain yogurt or a plant-based alternative if you need it to be dairy-free.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

You sure can, but keep in mind that fresh fruit may release more or less juice than canned, which could affect the texture. Be sure to chop everything into bite-sized pieces and avoid very watery fruits like watermelon.

Great fresh options include:

• Fresh pineapple (chopped and cored)
• Clementine segments
• Pitted fresh cherries (when in season)

What if I don’t like coconut?

No problem. The coconut is optional and can be left out entirely without affecting the base recipe. Or, if you still want a bit of that tropical flair, try using finely chopped dried mango or pineapple instead.

How long does ambrosia salad last in the fridge?

It’s best enjoyed within 3 days. After that, the fruit can start to get mushy and the cream mixture may separate. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I freeze ambrosia salad?

Yes, but with caution. Freezing can change the texture of the whipped topping and fruit, making them less appealing when thawed. If you do freeze it, stir well after thawing and expect a softer, less fluffy texture.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan:

• Use plant-based whipped topping (many brands offer this now)
• Replace sour cream with vegan yogurt or coconut cream
• Use vegan mini marshmallows (they exist, and they’re delicious)

Can I add other fruits?

Definitely. This recipe is super customizable. Add diced apples, grapes, strawberries, or even sliced bananas (add bananas just before serving to prevent browning).

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as all your ingredients (especially marshmallows and Cool Whip) are certified gluten-free. Always double-check labels if gluten is a concern.

Can I serve this as a side dish or dessert?

Both! That’s the beauty of Tropical ambrosia salad. It’s light and sweet enough to serve as dessert but versatile and fruity enough to be a brunch or side dish at a potluck or barbecue.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Whether you’re hosting a family get-together, heading to a picnic, or just craving something cool and sweet, this Creamy Tropical Ambrosia Salad is the kind of recipe that delivers every single time. It’s quick, easy, and made from ingredients you probably already have on hand. And let’s be honest—who can resist a colorful, fluffy bowl of fruit and cream?

What makes this Tropical ambrosia salad dish truly special is how it brings people together. It’s one of those nostalgic recipes that crosses generations—grandparents love it, kids devour it, and everyone in between asks for seconds. It’s perfect for holidays, summer cookouts, birthday parties, or just because you feel like a spoonful of something sweet and sunny.

Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. Whether you stick with the classic canned fruit combo or switch things up with fresh ingredients, every version feels a little bit like your own. Add in nuts, skip the coconut, lighten it with Greek yogurt, or serve it in fancy glasses—the choice is all yours.

So now it’s your turn. Head to your kitchen, grab those cans of fruit and a tub of Cool Whip, and whip up a batch of this tropical ambrosia salad. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple dish can taste so good and bring so much joy.

Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment below with your favorite fruit combo, share this recipe with friends and family, or tag me in your photos on social media. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear how ambrosia salad is making its way into your family traditions too.

Happy mixing—and enjoy every fluffy, fruity bite!

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