Name: Classic Ambrosia Salad with Marshmallows
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained well; 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple tidbits or chunks, drained well; 1 (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained, halved (stems removed); 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows (plain or colorful); 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed; ½ cup sour cream

This classic Ambrosia Salad combines juicy mandarin oranges, sweet pineapple tidbits, vibrant maraschino cherries, chewy mini marshmallows, and fluffy shredded coconut, all gently folded into a creamy blend of whipped topping and sour cream. It’s light, sweet, and refreshingly tropical—perfect for celebrations or simple indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall head over heels for this Classic Ambrosia Salad because it’s ridiculously easy—no cooking, minimal prep, and it comes together in minutes. The magical mix of creamy Cool Whip (or whipped topping), tangy sour cream, soft marshmallows, and colorful canned fruits creates an irresistible fluffy texture and balanced sweetness that’s not cloying.

Maraschino cherries add pops of bright cherry flavor and festive red color, while coconut brings that signature chewy, tropical note. It’s make-ahead magic (tastes even better after chilling overnight), budget-friendly with pantry staples, and universally loved—kids adore the marshmallows and colors, adults crave the nostalgic comfort.

Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or a backyard BBQ, this retro favorite disappears fast and always earns compliments as a refreshing side or light dessert.

Yield: 10 servings

Classic Ambrosia Salad with Marshmallows

Fluffy classic Ambrosia Salad loaded with marshmallows, mandarin oranges, pineapple, cherries, and creamy coconut goodness—easy and nostalgic.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Additional Time 4 hours

Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained well
1 (20-ounce) can pineapple tidbits or chunks, drained well
1 (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained, halved (stems removed)
1 ½ cups mini marshmallows (plain or colorful)
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
½ cup sour cream

Instructions

Start with your largest mixing bowl—this salad loves space to mix happily without squishing anything!
Open and drain the mandarin oranges thoroughly—press gently in a colander or pat dry. Their bright segments add sunny citrus magic.
Drain the pineapple tidbits (or chunks) the same way—really squeeze out that juice so your salad stays creamy, not soupy.
Drain and halve the maraschino cherries (remove stems)—these ruby gems bring sweet bursts and gorgeous color pops.
Add the drained mandarin oranges, pineapple, and halved cherries to the bowl—they're the fruity heart of this classic.
Sprinkle in the mini marshmallows generously—these fluffy pillows make every bite fun and nostalgic.
Shower the mixture with sweetened shredded coconut for that irresistible chewy, tropical coconut flavor we all crave.
In a separate bowl, stir the thawed whipped topping and sour cream together until silky smooth—the sour cream adds perfect tangy balance.
Gently fold the creamy mixture into the fruit bowl using a large spatula—slow, loving folds coat everything evenly without deflating the fluff.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best). The chill lets marshmallows soften and flavors blend into dreamy perfection. Scoop and serve cold—watch it vanish!

Notes

Drain fruits extremely well to prevent watery salad. Best enjoyed chilled. Not freezer-friendly.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 227Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 13gUnsaturated Fat 2gCholesterol 7mgSodium 83mgCarbohydrates 22gFiber 3gSugar 18gProtein 2g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Drain every bit of juice from the canned fruits using a colander and pressing gently (or paper towels)—wet fruit makes the salad soupy and causes separation.
Fold ingredients gently with a spatula to preserve the airy whipped topping and keep marshmallows intact; aggressive stirring deflates everything.
Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight—the marshmallows soften beautifully and flavors meld into pure perfection.
If using homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip, whip to stiff peaks and fold in carefully for best results.
Taste and adjust: too sweet? Add a touch more sour cream; too tangy? Sprinkle extra coconut or marshmallows.
For extra flair, garnish the top with a few whole cherries, toasted coconut, or chopped pecans right before serving.

Ingredients Notes

Mandarin oranges deliver bright, juicy citrus segments that are tender and seedless—canned in juice (not syrup) for cleaner flavor; drain well to avoid excess liquid. Pineapple tidbits or chunks provide sweet-tangy tropical bites—use canned in juice and drain thoroughly.

Maraschino cherries add jewel-like color, sweet cherry taste, and a classic retro touch—halve them and drain to prevent bleeding into the cream. Mini marshmallows (plain white or colorful) bring fluffy, chewy sweetness and that iconic kid-friendly appeal.

Sweetened shredded coconut offers nutty chew and beachy flavor—flaked or shredded both work. Sour cream introduces subtle tang to balance the sweetness and stabilize the mixture. Whipped topping like Cool Whip creates effortless lightness and creaminess—thaw fully for smooth folding.

Variations and Substitutions

For a nutty crunch, stir in chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted for extra flavor). Swap pineapple tidbits for crushed pineapple if you prefer finer texture, or add fruit cocktail for more variety. Make it fruitier with halved green grapes or sliced bananas (add bananas last to avoid browning).

For lighter version, use Greek yogurt or vanilla yogurt instead of sour cream and light whipped topping. Dairy-free? Opt for coconut whipped topping and plant-based sour cream. Reduce sweetness with unsweetened coconut and fewer marshmallows.

Go vintage by using homemade whipped cream (heavy cream + sugar) instead of Cool Whip. Add rainbow mini marshmallows for fun color pops, or include chopped apples for crispness. For a fluffier take, increase marshmallows; for more tropical, add extra coconut.