I’ve spent years perfecting the balance of flavors and textures in my homemade ambrosia recipe, and it’s become a staple at family gatherings. The combination of creamy tanginess, sweet fruit, and crunchy coconut creates a dessert that’s light yet satisfying. There’s a secret twist that elevates it from ordinary to unforgettable. If you’re curious about what makes this version stand out, the details might just surprise you.
Recipe
If there’s one dessert that screams nostalgia while still feeling fresh and vibrant, it’s this homemade ambrosia. I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count—for potlucks, holidays, and just because—and every single time, it disappears faster than you can say “seconds, please.”
What makes it so special? The perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet, with juicy bursts of citrus and chewy coconut. It’s like sunshine in a bowl.
No fancy techniques here—just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in minutes. Trust me, once you taste that first bite of fluffy marshmallows, bright pineapple, and citrus-kissed whipped cream, you’ll understand why this is the only ambrosia recipe you’ll ever need.
Let’s make it!
Ingredients
Ambrosia is all about balancing creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures—so ingredient quality matters. Fresh citrus zest and toasted coconut take this from a simple fruit salad to a nostalgic showstopper. Here’s what you’ll need, with insider tricks to make it unforgettable:
The Essentials
- Mandarin oranges (canned, drained): Their bright acidity cuts through the sweetness. Fresh segments work, but canned are juicier.
- Pineapple chunks (canned, drained): Opt for juice-packed, not syrup—it’s cleaner and less cloying.
- Mini marshmallows: The classic chewy texture. For a twist, toast them lightly first.
- Sour cream: The tangy backbone. Full-fat Greek yogurt can sub in a pinch.
- Whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade): Fold it in gently to keep the fluff.
The Upgrades
- Toasted coconut flakes: Non-negotiable. Toast them yourself for a nutty depth (350°F for 5 minutes—watch closely!).
- Maraschino cherries: Drain well to avoid dye bleeding. Luxardo cherries add a sophisticated touch.
- Fresh lemon or orange zest: Just a pinch wakes up all the flavors.
Pro Tips
- Chill the bowl and ingredients beforehand—it helps everything stay light.
- Add a splash of citrus juice (from the mandarin cans) if the mix feels too thick.
- For a boozy twist, fold in 1 tbsp of coconut rum or Grand Marnier.
How to Make the Best Authentic Ambrosia Recipe Name
– Gather and Prep Ingredients
Before starting, verify all ingredients are measured and prepped. This includes draining pineapple tidbits and canned mandarin oranges, toasting coconut flakes, and slicing maraschino cherries.
Having everything ready makes the process smoother and quicker.
– Whisk Sour Cream and Marshmallow Cream
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream and marshmallow cream until smooth. This creates the creamy base for the ambrosia.
If the marshmallow cream is too stiff, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften.
– Fold in Fruits and Coconut
Gently fold the drained pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, and toasted coconut flakes into the cream mixture.
Use a spatula and avoid overmixing to keep the fruits intact. This guarantees a light, fluffy texture.
– Add the Cherries
Slice the maraschino cherries into halves or quarters, depending on your preference, and fold them into the mixture.
Be gentle to avoid breaking the cherries and staining the ambrosia pink.
– Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
– Garnish and Serve
Before serving, give the ambrosia a gentle stir.
You can garnish with extra toasted coconut flakes or a few whole maraschino cherries for a festive touch.
Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
– Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir gently before serving again, as the mixture may separate slightly over time.
– Pro Tip: Customize Your Ambrosia
Feel free to add other fruits like diced apples, grapes, or even a handful of mini marshmallows for extra texture.
Just confirm to adjust the amount of fruits to maintain the right balance of creaminess.
Nutrition
Ambrosia is a sweet and invigorating dessert that combines fruits, marshmallows, and coconut. It’s a crowd-pleaser but also packs some nutritional value due to its fruit content.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
| Sodium | 60mg |
| Total Carbs | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 40g |
| Protein | 2g |
Chef Tips
When making ambrosia, I find it’s best to use fresh, high-quality fruit to guarantee its natural sweetness shines through. I also recommend draining canned pineapple well to avoid a soggy texture.
For added creaminess, fold in whipped topping gently. Chill the dish for at least an hour before serving to let flavors meld.
Don’t skip the coconut—it’s essential for that classic ambrosia flavor.
