Ambrosia (Mom’s Marshmallow Salad)

Ambrosia, also known as “Mom’s Marshmallow Salad,” is a sweet, creamy fruit salad that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or casual family dinners. With fluffy marshmallows, juicy fruit, and a touch of coconut, this nostalgic dish is as simple as it is delicious. It’s one of those recipes that always brings a smile and makes everyone feel at home.

Personal Story & Background

Ambrosia has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. I grew up eating it at every holiday meal—Thanksgiving, Christmas, and even Easter. It was my mom’s signature dish, and no family gathering ever felt complete without it. This marshmallow salad became so synonymous with family traditions that whenever I think of it, I’m transported to cozy kitchens filled with laughter, good food, and lots of love.

The best part of this recipe is how it has that perfect balance of sweet and creamy, with a little crunch from the coconut and a burst of freshness from the fruit. My mom always said that the trick to a good Ambrosia was in letting it sit in the fridge long enough for the flavors to meld, so it was the ultimate “make-ahead” dish that always came together perfectly. Whether it’s the star of the dinner table or a side dish to complement other flavors, it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser.

Ingredient Notes

• Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are the classic choice for Ambrosia. They add the perfect soft, chewy texture and sweetness that define this dish.
• Whipped Topping: To achieve that light, fluffy texture, whipped topping (like Cool Whip) is the go-to. It binds the marshmallows, fruit, and coconut together into a creamy, dreamy salad.
• Coconut Flakes: Sweetened coconut flakes give this salad a bit of tropical flavor and texture. If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can leave it out, but it’s an important part of the classic flavor.
• Fruit Cocktail: Fruit cocktail in syrup is the traditional fruit for Ambrosia, but feel free to mix in your favorite fruits. Pineapple, mandarin oranges, or cherries all work well too.
• Pineapple: Fresh or canned pineapple adds sweetness and a bit of tartness to balance the richness of the marshmallows and whipped topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Drain the Fruit

Start by draining the canned fruit cocktail and pineapple thoroughly. You don’t want excess liquid in the salad, so press the fruit into a strainer to make sure it’s as dry as possible.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the drained fruit cocktail, pineapple, and coconut flakes. Add the mini marshmallows and gently fold everything together.

Step 3: Add the Whipped Topping

Add the whipped topping to the fruit and marshmallow mixture, folding it in gently until everything is well coated. Make sure the whipped topping is evenly distributed, creating that creamy, fluffy texture.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften further. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Let it sit: The longer Ambrosia sits in the fridge, the better it gets. Make it the night before for the best flavor and texture.
• Use fresh fruit: If you want to get a bit more adventurous, try swapping out the canned fruit for fresh fruit like diced apples, grapes, or even strawberries.
• Go light on the coconut: Coconut can be a polarizing ingredient, so feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference—or leave it out entirely.

Serving Suggestions

Ambrosia is the perfect side dish for holiday meals, but it also makes a fun dessert at potlucks, barbecues, or casual get-togethers. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like ham, roasted chicken, or even BBQ. It’s also great as a topping for yogurt or ice cream if you’re looking for a sweet treat!

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover Ambrosia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors just keep getting better as it sits.
• Freezer: While this salad is best fresh or chilled, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that the whipped topping and fruit may change texture after freezing and thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Make-ahead: This dish is perfect for making ahead of time. It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to come together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh fruit like pineapple, mandarin oranges, or fresh grapes can be a great alternative to canned fruit cocktail. Just be sure to cut it into small pieces and drain any excess juice.

Can I make this Ambrosia vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! You can use a dairy-free whipped topping and swap out the regular marshmallows for vegan marshmallows. Coconut flakes are naturally dairy-free, so that’s one less thing to worry about.

How long can I store leftover Ambrosia?

You can store leftover Ambrosia in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the texture may start to degrade, especially if the marshmallows and whipped topping get too soggy.

Conclusion

Mom’s Marshmallow Salad, or Ambrosia, is the ultimate nostalgic dish that never fails to bring comfort and smiles. With its sweet, creamy, and fruity goodness, it’s the perfect addition to any holiday meal or casual gathering. Whether you’re passing it down to the next generation or just enjoying it yourself, this recipe will always be a reminder of family, tradition, and the simple joys of good food. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

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