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Old-Fashioned Ambrosia Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Fruit Dessert

old-fashioned ambrosia salad - featured image
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A nostalgic, creamy fruit salad combining Cool Whip, mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion and brings a comforting, sweet, and tangy flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
  • 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained
  • 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened
  • 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 6–8 maraschino cherries, halved (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Fresh whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain the canned mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks thoroughly to avoid excess liquid.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, shredded coconut, and halved maraschino cherries if using.
  3. Sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the fruit mixture and fold them in gently.
  4. Add the thawed Cool Whip and vanilla extract to the bowl. Fold everything together until evenly coated and light, fluffy, and creamy.
  5. If using, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in last and fold gently to maintain the crunch.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld and the salad firm up.
  7. Just before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and top with fresh whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Drain canned fruit thoroughly to avoid watery salad. Fold ingredients gently to keep fruit intact and maintain texture. Chill at least 1 hour for best flavor and texture. Optional additions include fresh fruit, nuts, or zest for variation. Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator up to 3 days; avoid freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: ambrosia salad, old-fashioned dessert, fruit salad, Cool Whip dessert, easy fruit dessert, nostalgic recipe, potluck dessert

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/old-fashioned-ambrosia-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-fruit-dessert/