Tropical Ambrosia Salad Recipe with Cool Whip and Greek Yogurt

There’s something undeniably charming about ambrosia salad. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a throwback to a simpler time, and yet it never really goes out of style. Whether you first tried it at a family gathering, a picnic in the park, or a potluck with friends, you probably remember the creamy, sweet, slightly tangy combination of fruit and fluff that made you go back for seconds. This version—our Creamy Tropical Ambrosia Salad—is a modern twist on the beloved classic. It’s easy to make, incredibly comforting, and completely customizable.

What makes this ambrosia salad special is its tropical flair. We’re talking juicy mandarin oranges, sweet pineapple tidbits, vibrant maraschino cherries, and the most luscious vanilla Greek yogurt. To bring it all together, we fold in fluffy Cool Whip, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut for the ultimate creamy, dreamy texture. Optional chopped pecans add just the right amount of crunch on top if you want to level it up.

The beauty of this dessert is that it requires absolutely no cooking. It’s the kind of recipe you can pull together in ten minutes flat, toss in the fridge, and forget about until dessert time. And when it hits the table? Expect smiles all around. The colors pop, the texture is irresistibly light, and every spoonful is packed with fruity flavor and nostalgic goodness.

This recipe also holds a special place in my heart. It was one of the first desserts I ever “helped” make as a kid—mostly meaning I got to stir the marshmallows and sneak some cherries when no one was looking. Now, it’s a go-to whenever I want to bring a dish that’s guaranteed to get devoured. It’s a hit with kids and grown-ups alike, and it always disappears quickly.

So whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue, need something quick and delicious for a potluck, or just want a sweet treat that’s light, fruity, and totally satisfying, this tropical ambrosia salad has you covered. Let’s make some creamy magic together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about this tropical ambrosia salad is how universally loved it is. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or serving up something sweet for a big crowd, this recipe is a guaranteed win. And here’s why it’s earned a permanent spot in my rotation.

First, let’s talk about how easy it is. No baking, no stovetop, no fancy equipment. If you’ve got a bowl and a spatula, you’re good to go. This is a true mix-and-go kind of recipe, perfect for busy days or last-minute entertaining. You’ll have it prepped in under fifteen minutes, and then the fridge does the rest of the work. It’s as low-effort as it gets, but it tastes like a treat you spent way longer on.

Next, the flavors are an absolute dream. You get the brightness of the mandarin oranges and pineapple, the sweetness of cherries, the creamy tang from the yogurt, and the pillowy soft marshmallows all wrapped in a light whipped topping. The shredded coconut adds that tropical feel, and if you choose to sprinkle on pecans, you’ll get a lovely toasty crunch to balance all the soft textures.

This recipe is also incredibly flexible. You can swap out the fruits, use plain Greek yogurt for a tangier twist, go light on the whipped topping for fewer calories, or make it nut-free to keep it allergy-friendly. It’s the kind of base recipe you can customize again and again depending on what you have in the pantry or who you’re serving.

Plus, this salad works for so many occasions. Serve it at summer BBQs, Easter brunch, baby showers, birthday parties, or even as a fun weeknight dessert. It’s especially great in warmer months when you want something sweet but not heavy.

Finally, it’s just plain nostalgic. This is one of those comfort recipes that feels like a big, cold hug from the inside out. Every spoonful tastes like a memory—maybe from your childhood, or maybe from the new memories you’re making now with your own family.

Health Benefits of this Easy Tropical Ambrosia Salad

While ambrosia salad is definitely a dessert, it has a few redeeming qualities that make it a better-for-you option compared to more indulgent sweets. The key lies in the ingredients we’ve chosen—let’s take a closer look at why this recipe can actually be a nourishing treat.

First off, the fruit. This recipe packs in three different kinds—mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, and maraschino cherries. Citrus fruits like mandarins are loaded with vitamin C, which helps support the immune system and boosts collagen production. Pineapple is rich in bromelain, a digestive enzyme that can help ease bloating and improve digestion. While maraschino cherries are more for fun and color, they still add a bit of fiber and flavor.

Next, we use vanilla Greek yogurt, which adds a creamy texture while also delivering a nice dose of protein and probiotics. Protein helps you feel full longer, and probiotics are great for gut health, supporting healthy digestion and immunity. If you’re trying to sneak more yogurt into your diet, this is a delicious way to do it.

The shredded coconut, while sweetened, adds healthy fats and fiber. Coconut is known for its medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that your body uses quickly for energy rather than storing it. Plus, it contributes a wonderful tropical flavor that makes this salad feel like vacation in a bowl.

Mini marshmallows and Cool Whip may not be health foods, but in moderation, they’re totally fine and bring that signature texture and sweetness we all know and love. And if you opt for chopped pecans on top, you’ll be adding more healthy fats, a bit of protein, and extra crunch—all of which can help keep you satisfied.

Altogether, this dessert is lighter than cake or pie and can be made even lighter by choosing low-fat or sugar-free versions of the yogurt and whipped topping. And because it’s made mostly with fruit and dairy, it’s a great way to sneak a little nutrition into your sweet treat.

Of course, everything is best in balance, and this salad walks that line beautifully—indulgent, but with ingredients that have real benefits.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both quick to prep and crowd-friendly, this tropical ambrosia salad checks all the boxes. Let’s break down what to expect in terms of time, servings, and nutrition.

Preparation Time:
Active prep time is about 10 to 15 minutes. This includes draining your canned fruits, measuring out ingredients, and gently mixing everything together. You’ll want to chill the salad in the fridge for at least 1 hour, and up to 4 hours for the best flavor and texture, but that part is completely hands-off.

Servings:
This recipe makes about 8 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or party. If you’re feeding a crowd, feel free to double or even triple the ingredients—the salad scales beautifully.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):
Calories: Approximately 220
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugars: 27g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Calcium: 10% DV
Vitamin C: 60% DV

These numbers will vary slightly depending on the specific brands you use and whether you include the pecans, but overall this is a light, fruit-forward dessert with a nice balance of macro- and micronutrients.

Ingredients List of this Easy Tropical Ambrosia Salad

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this luscious tropical ambrosia salad. You’ll find most of these items at any grocery store, and many are pantry staples you may already have on hand.

Fruits:

• 15 oz. can mandarin oranges, drained
  Adds bright citrusy sweetness and a soft texture. Be sure to drain them well to prevent the salad from getting watery.
• 20 oz. can pineapple tidbits, drained
  Adds tropical flavor and juicy bites. Tidbits work better than chunks for even distribution.
• 12 oz. jar maraschino cherries, drained and stems removed
  Brings a pop of color and sweetness. Removing the stems makes it easier to eat.

Creamy Base:

• ¾ cup vanilla Greek yogurt (about one 6 oz container)
  Adds creaminess, protein, and a hint of tang to balance the sweetness.
• 8 oz. tub Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed
  Gives the salad its fluffy, airy texture. Make sure it’s thawed before mixing.

Add-Ins:

• 1 cup mini marshmallows
  Classic ambrosia texture—soft, sweet, and fun for kids and adults alike.
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  Adds chewiness and that signature tropical twist. Sweetened coconut helps balance the tang of the yogurt.

Optional Topping:

• Chopped pecans (about ½ cup)
  Optional, but adds crunch and a toasty nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.

You can also experiment with adding grapes, kiwi, or even diced mango for more variety, but the combination above is a tried-and-true classic.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This tropical ambrosia salad is all about easy assembly with maximum flavor and texture. Each step is simple, but there are a few helpful tricks along the way to make sure your salad turns out beautifully creamy and not at all watery. Let’s walk through it step by step, with tips included.

Step 1: Drain the fruit thoroughly

The most important step—do not rush this one. Open your cans and jars: mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, and maraschino cherries. Drain each one in a fine mesh strainer or colander. Let them sit for a good 5–10 minutes to release as much juice as possible.

Why this matters: If there’s too much liquid in your salad, it can get runny and lose its light, fluffy texture. You want the fruit to be juicy but not wet.

Tip: After draining, you can gently pat the fruit with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

Step 2: Combine the drained fruits

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, and maraschino cherries. Use a spatula or large spoon to fold them together.

Be gentle here—you don’t want to mash the oranges or cherries. The goal is to evenly distribute the fruit without breaking it apart.

Optional: If you’re adding other fruit like seedless grapes or diced mango, add them now.

Step 3: Add the creamy ingredients

Next, spoon in the vanilla Greek yogurt and the shredded sweetened coconut. Use the spatula to gently mix until everything is evenly coated.

Why yogurt? It adds a creamy tang that balances out the sweetness of the fruit and marshmallows. The coconut adds texture and depth.

At this stage, the mixture will start to look creamy but still a bit loose—that’s exactly right.

Step 4: Fold in the mini marshmallows

Add in the mini marshmallows and stir gently until they’re evenly mixed through the salad. The marshmallows will absorb a little of the moisture and help create that classic ambrosia texture—soft and slightly chewy.

Tip: For extra fluff, let the marshmallows sit in the yogurt mixture for a few minutes before adding the Cool Whip. They’ll start to soften and soak in flavor.

Step 5: Fold in the Cool Whip

Now it’s time to make it light and fluffy. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip using a spatula. Don’t stir vigorously—fold it slowly to keep as much of the air in the whipped topping as possible.

Why fold, not stir? Folding keeps the texture airy instead of making it dense. You’re combining ingredients without deflating them.

At this point, your ambrosia salad will be creamy, sweet, and full of fruit. It might seem a little soft right after mixing—that’s totally normal. It will firm up as it chills.

Step 6: Chill for at least 1 hour

Transfer your ambrosia salad to an airtight container or cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour—up to four hours is even better.

This chill time is crucial. It allows the flavors to meld, the marshmallows to soften slightly, and the texture to become more cohesive. If you’re making it for a party or gathering, this is a great make-ahead step.

Tip: If you’re making it the night before, give it a quick stir before serving to fluff it back up.

Step 7: Add optional toppings and serve

Right before serving, stir the salad gently to redistribute any settled ingredients. Then, if you’re using chopped pecans, sprinkle them over the top.

Why add pecans last? If you mix them in too early, they can get soggy. Adding them just before serving keeps them crunchy and fresh.

Optional: For an extra festive touch, garnish with a few whole cherries or a sprinkle of coconut on top.

That’s it—your Creamy Tropical Ambrosia Salad is ready to be enjoyed.

How to Serve this Easy Tropical Ambrosia Salad

There are so many fun and delicious ways to serve this ambrosia salad, depending on the occasion and vibe you’re going for. Whether it’s part of a brunch spread, a casual dinner, or a party table, it always finds a place.

Serve chilled: This salad is best served cold, straight from the fridge. The chilled temperature enhances the texture, firms up the ingredients, and makes every bite refreshing and creamy.

As a dessert: Dish it up in small bowls or dessert cups after a savory meal. It’s a light, sweet way to finish without the heaviness of cake or pie.

As a side: In classic potluck or barbecue fashion, you can serve this as a side dish alongside savory mains. It pairs well with grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches—especially on hot summer days.

For brunch: Add it to your weekend brunch table with pancakes, eggs, and fruit platters. It brings color, creaminess, and sweetness all in one.

Kid-friendly fun: Serve in mini cups with extra marshmallows on top for kids. You can even layer it in small clear cups to create a mini trifle look.

For special occasions: Spoon into fancy glass dishes, add a mint leaf or maraschino cherry on top, and you’ve got a pretty, party-ready treat that feels special but took no extra effort.

This recipe is versatile and casual enough for everyday meals but charming enough to dress up for a celebration.

Pairing Suggestions

The light, fruity nature of this ambrosia salad means it pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Whether you’re setting a full table or planning a picnic, these pairing suggestions will bring out the best in your tropical salad.

Grilled chicken or turkey: The smoky, savory flavors of grilled poultry pair well with the cool sweetness of the ambrosia. It creates a balanced plate with variety in texture and taste.

Savory sandwiches: Serve this salad with club sandwiches, turkey sliders, or even BBQ chicken sandwiches. The creamy fruitiness contrasts beautifully with the salty, savory elements.

Spicy dishes: If you’re making something with a kick—think spicy wings or jerk chicken—the cool creaminess of ambrosia helps balance the heat.

Fresh green salads: A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a spinach salad with berries and nuts complements the soft, sweet notes of the ambrosia.

Brunch classics: Pair with quiche, French toast, or breakfast casseroles for a sweet counterpart that completes the spread.

Non-alcoholic drinks: Sparkling water with lime, iced herbal teas, or fruit-infused water are perfect drinks to accompany this dessert. Their freshness balances the sweetness.

Kid-friendly combos: Serve with chicken nuggets, mac and cheese, or simple buttered noodles. This salad makes a fun and unexpected addition to a kid’s meal.

Make sure to serve it cold, and it will be a perfect companion to many different plates.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This ambrosia salad stores very well, making it perfect for prepping ahead or saving leftovers. Here’s how to store it, freeze it (if needed), and keep it tasting fresh.

Storage:
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving leftovers, give it a gentle stir to redistribute any moisture or ingredients that may have settled.

Tip: Avoid keeping it uncovered in the fridge, as it can absorb other food odors and dry out.

Freezing:
Technically, yes, you can freeze ambrosia salad—but with some caveats. The texture will change upon thawing. The fruits may become a bit mushy, and the whipped topping can separate slightly.

If you must freeze it, do so in a freezer-safe container and try to eat it within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir before serving. Don’t refreeze after thawing.

Reheating:
No reheating is needed (or recommended). This is a cold dish, and heating it will ruin its texture. Just serve it straight from the fridge.

If you need to refresh it, you can fold in a little extra Cool Whip or yogurt before serving to bring back the fluffiness.

Proper storage ensures that your salad stays safe to eat and retains its delicious flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple and forgiving, there are still a few key mistakes that can affect the flavor or texture of your ambrosia salad. Let’s walk through the most common pitfalls so you can avoid them and make your salad turn out perfect every time.

1. Not draining the fruit well enough
This is the number one issue that can turn your salad from fluffy to soggy. Canned fruit, especially pineapple and mandarin oranges, hold a lot of syrup or juice. If you skip the draining step or rush it, all that extra liquid ends up watering down the salad.

What to do instead: Drain all canned fruits in a fine mesh strainer and let them sit for a few minutes. Gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove any leftover moisture.

2. Overmixing the Cool Whip
Cool Whip is what gives the salad its light, airy texture. If you mix it too vigorously or for too long, you’ll deflate it, and the salad will turn dense and heavy.

What to do instead: Fold the Cool Whip in gently with a spatula. Use soft, sweeping motions rather than stirring aggressively.

3. Adding the nuts too early
While chopped pecans are a great addition, if you mix them in ahead of time, they can lose their crunch and even get soggy as they sit in the creamy mixture.

What to do instead: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

4. Serving it too soon
This salad really benefits from a bit of chill time. If you serve it immediately after mixing, the flavors won’t have had time to meld, and the texture will be softer and less cohesive.

What to do instead: Chill for at least 1 hour in the fridge before serving. Four hours is even better for the best results.

5. Using low-quality or expired ingredients
Because this is a no-cook recipe, the flavor of each ingredient really stands out. If your coconut is stale or your Cool Whip has freezer burn, it’ll show in the final dish.

What to do instead: Always check expiration dates, use fresh ingredients, and go for quality brands when possible.

Avoiding these mistakes will help your ambrosia salad turn out beautifully creamy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing every single time.

Pro Tips

To take your tropical ambrosia salad from good to truly irresistible, try incorporating these simple but effective tips. These small tweaks and thoughtful additions can elevate both the flavor and presentation.

1. Use cold ingredients from the start
For the best texture, make sure your yogurt, Cool Whip, and fruit are all chilled before you start assembling. If everything is already cold, the salad will set faster and chill more evenly.

2. Let it rest for maximum flavor
While one hour in the fridge is the minimum, giving it more time—like four hours or even overnight—makes a big difference. The flavors meld together, the marshmallows soften, and the whole salad becomes creamier and more cohesive.

3. Toast the coconut for extra flavor
If you want to deepen the coconut flavor, try toasting the shredded coconut in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until golden. Let it cool before adding. It adds a nutty aroma and a hint of crunch.

4. Try flavor variations in the yogurt
Vanilla yogurt is classic, but feel free to experiment with coconut-flavored or even pineapple-flavored Greek yogurt to enhance the tropical profile. It’s a fun way to switch things up while staying true to the recipe’s essence.

5. Dress it up for serving
If you’re serving this at a special event, layer the salad in clear dessert cups or small trifle bowls. Add a maraschino cherry or a sprig of mint on top for presentation. These small touches make it feel fancy with almost no extra effort.

6. Make it nut-free for allergy-friendly events
If you’re bringing this to a gathering and aren’t sure about nut allergies, just skip the pecans. The salad still shines with creamy fruitiness and soft texture.

7. Keep the texture balanced
If you’re adding extra fruit, be sure to balance the mix so it doesn’t get too watery or too chunky. Stick to similar-sized pieces and drain thoroughly. Avoid adding too many soft fruits like bananas, which break down quickly.

8. Taste before chilling
Before putting it in the fridge, give it a taste and adjust if needed. Want more tang? Add a spoonful of yogurt. Want more sweetness? A touch of honey or a few extra marshmallows can do the trick.

Following these pro tips will help you get consistent, delicious results every single time—and might just make this ambrosia salad your new signature dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, and in fact, it’s better that way. Making it ahead gives the flavors time to blend and the texture to firm up. Chill for at least an hour, but up to 24 hours is ideal. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh mandarins, pineapple chunks, and even pitted cherries can work well. Just be sure to chop the fruit into bite-sized pieces and remove as much juice as possible to prevent sogginess.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes. Use a dairy-free yogurt (like coconut or almond milk yogurt) and substitute a non-dairy whipped topping. Many brands offer plant-based options now, so you can easily adapt this to be completely dairy-free.

What if I don’t like coconut?
No problem. Just leave it out. The salad will still be creamy and sweet without it, and you can add an extra half cup of mini marshmallows or another fruit like grapes if you want to bulk it up.

Can I use plain yogurt instead of vanilla?
You can, but plain yogurt is tangier and less sweet. If you go this route, you might want to add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the flavor. Vanilla yogurt helps add that dessert-like vibe.

Can I make it with sugar-free ingredients?
Yes. Use sugar-free or light Cool Whip and choose a low-sugar or sugar-free Greek yogurt. You can also find unsweetened coconut and use fruit canned in juice instead of syrup to reduce sugar content.

How do I make it nut-free?
Just skip the chopped pecans. The salad is just as delicious without them, and this makes it safe for anyone with nut allergies.

Can I freeze leftovers?
You can, but the texture may suffer. The fruit can get mushy and the whipped topping may separate. If you do freeze it, eat it within a month and thaw it slowly in the fridge. Stir before serving to recombine.

What’s the best way to transport it to a party?
Use a chilled airtight container and pack it in a cooler bag with ice packs. Keep it cold until you’re ready to serve. Bring the chopped pecans in a small separate container and sprinkle them on right before serving.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales very well. Just double or triple all ingredients and use a larger mixing bowl. Make sure to still drain the fruit thoroughly and fold in the whipped topping gently to maintain the texture.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Creamy Tropical Ambrosia Salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a slice of nostalgia, a breeze to whip up, and a crowd-pleaser every single time. Whether you’re making it for a laid-back summer picnic, a celebratory brunch, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth midweek, it never disappoints. With its colorful mix of fruits, creamy yogurt, fluffy Cool Whip, and fun marshmallows, it’s a treat that feels both familiar and a little bit special.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how forgiving and flexible it is. You can tweak it to fit your dietary needs, switch up the flavors, or add your own flair. And even if you’re not usually a dessert person, this salad offers a lighter, fruit-forward option that still satisfies that craving for something sweet and creamy.

So here’s your invitation: make this salad. Share it with the people you love. Bring it to a potluck and watch it disappear. Serve it to your kids and see how fast they ask for seconds. Or, honestly, just make it for yourself and savor a bowl while binge-watching your favorite show. You deserve that moment of tropical sweetness.

If you try this recipe, I’d absolutely love to hear how it turned out for you. Leave a comment below with your thoughts or any fun variations you tried. And if you post a photo on social media, tag me—I live for seeing your delicious creations in action.

Let this creamy, fruity, fluffy salad be the dessert that always delivers. You’ve got this. Happy mixing!

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