The Sweet, Fluffy Marshmallow Salad My Mom Always Made (a.k.a. Ambrosia)
This nostalgic marshmallow salad—known as Ambrosia—is a creamy, dreamy blend of whipped topping, sweet fruit, mini marshmallows, and coconut. A staple at potlucks and holidays, it’s incredibly easy to make, takes just minutes to prepare, and tastes like a hug in a bowl.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American, Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 (15 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved (optional)
Instructions
- Thoroughly drain the canned mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the marshmallows, drained fruits, coconut, sour cream, and whipped topping.
- Once well combined, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to let flavors meld and marshmallows soften.
- Right before serving, top with maraschino cherries if using.
- Serve chilled with a big spoon or in individual bowls.
Notes
- Make sure fruit is well-drained to prevent watery salad.
- This dish tastes even better after sitting overnight.
- For a tangier flavor, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Add a splash of maraschino cherry juice to tint it pink if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg