Ambrosia Salad
About This Ambrosia Salad
Ambrosia salad is nostalgia- plain & simple. I grew up eating it at holidays and potlucks, always loving every bite… except the shredded coconut… so this version is my personal spin: a creamy, dreamy ambrosia salad without coconut by default, but you can add it in if you’re into it.
This version is extra luxurious thanks to cream cheese and homemade whipped cream, with mandarin oranges, pineapple, cherries, and mini marshmallows folded in. It’s nostalgic, fluffy, fruity, and very addicting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nostalgic, vintage dessert that is actually delicious
Extra creamy from cream cheese + real whipped cream
Coconut is totally optional and customizable
Make-ahead friendly — perfect for parties and holidays
Works as a dessert, sweet side, holiday gatherings, or potluck dish
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Heavy whipping cream
Vanilla extract
Canned mandarin oranges, drained
Canned pineapple tidbits or crushed, well-drained
Mini marshmallows (white or rainbow)
Maraschino cherries, halved or quartered
Sweetened shredded coconut (optional, for a more traditional version)
How to Make It
Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the powdered sugar. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla to stiff peaks, and gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy. Fold in the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple, mini marshmallows, and cherries (plus coconut if using), being careful not to crush the fruit. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours so it can thicken and the flavors meld.
Tips for Success
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened so it blends smoothly
Whip the cream to stiff peaks for the fluffiest texture
Drain the fruit very well so the salad doesn’t get watery
Fold gently to keep the fruit pieces intact
Chill for several hours (or overnight) for the best flavor and texture
Add coconut only if you like the texture — it’s optional
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to add coconut?
Nope! I actually prefer this ambrosia salad without coconut. If you like a more traditional version, you can add up to 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?
You can, but freshly whipped cream plus cream cheese gives a richer, more luxurious texture. If you swap, use about 4 cups Cool Whip.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
You can, but canned mandarin oranges and pineapple are classic and hold up well. If using fresh, make sure they’re very juicy and sweet.
How far ahead can I make ambrosia salad?
You can make it 1 day in advance. It often tastes better the next day as everything melds, but the marshmallows will soften more over time.
How long does it keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Stir gently before serving if it’s been sitting.
Can I make it less sweet?
Yes — reduce the powdered sugar slightly, use fewer marshmallows, or add a bit more cream cheese to balance the sweetness.
What to Serve With Ambrosia Salad
Holiday dinners (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter)
BBQs and potlucks
Ham, turkey, or roasted chicken
Brunch spreads with pastries and egg dishes
Summer cookouts alongside grilled meats
Other Recipes You’ll Love
Ambrosia Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 (11 oz) cans mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple tidbits or crushed, well-drained
- 2 cups mini marshmallows (white or rainbow- I like rainbow)
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved or quartered
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut (optional- I don't like coconut, so I omit)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Mix in powdered sugar. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and airy.
- Fold in the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple, mini marshmallows, and cherries, and then also coconut if you would like it to be more traditional. Mix gently to avoid breaking the fruit.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably longer, so the flavors can meld and the mixture thickens.
Some Cooking Essentials:
Hand Mixer
Shun Cleaver
All Clad Measuring Cups
Kitchen Aid Mixer
*Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I use and trust.
