Name: Tropical Ambrosia with Pineapple & Mandarin Oranges
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, well drained; 1 (20 oz) can pineapple tidbits or chunks, well drained; 1 ½ cups miniature marshmallows (white or fruit-flavored); 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained, halved, and patted dry (optional but recommended for color); 8 oz container whipped topping (thawed) or 2 cups homemade whipped cream; ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (for tang and stability); 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional); Optional add-ins: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, sliced bananas, or a sprinkle of lime zest

Transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise with this Tropical Ambrosia featuring juicy pineapple and sweet mandarin oranges. This creamy, no-cook fruit salad blends fluffy marshmallows, toasted coconut, and a light whipped dressing for a refreshing, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you crave a burst of tropical flavor in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This recipe

You’ll adore this Tropical Ambrosia because it’s incredibly easy to whip up with minimal effort—no cooking, baking, or complicated techniques required. Just drain, mix, and chill for a crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a vacation on a plate.

The combination of tangy pineapple and bright mandarin oranges creates a vibrant, juicy contrast against the soft, pillowy mini marshmallows and chewy coconut, all wrapped in a luscious creamy dressing that isn’t overly heavy.

It’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish at barbecues or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. Families love it for its kid-friendly sweetness, while adults appreciate the sophisticated tropical notes.

Plus, it gets even better as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead recipe that saves you time and stress when entertaining. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s called “food of the gods”—light, dreamy, and utterly addictive!

Yield: 10 servings

Tropical Ambrosia with Pineapple & Mandarin Oranges

Creamy tropical fruit salad bursting with pineapple, mandarin oranges, coconut, and marshmallows—easy, refreshing, and irresistible!

Prep Time 15 minutes

Additional Time 4 hours

Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, well drained
1 (20 oz) can pineapple tidbits or chunks, well drained
1 ½ cups miniature marshmallows (white or fruit-flavored)
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained, halved, and patted dry (optional but recommended for color)
8 oz container whipped topping (thawed) or 2 cups homemade whipped cream
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (for tang and stability)
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Optional add-ins: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, sliced bananas, or a sprinkle of lime zest

Instructions

Gather your sunny ingredients and get ready for a tropical escape in your kitchen! Place a large mixing bowl on your counter—this will be the home for all that deliciousness.
Prepare the fruits with care: Open the cans of mandarin oranges and pineapple. Drain them thoroughly in a colander or fine-mesh strainer, gently pressing out extra juice with the back of a spoon so your salad stays thick and creamy rather than soupy. Pat the maraschino cherries dry if using.
Create the dreamy base: In your large bowl, combine the thawed whipped topping with the sour cream or Greek yogurt. Add a splash of vanilla extract if you like. Use a rubber spatula to fold them together gently until smooth and luscious—this is the cloud-like dressing that holds everything together.
Add the coconut magic: Sprinkle in the sweetened shredded coconut. It brings that chewy, island-inspired texture and subtle sweetness that makes every bite feel special. Give it a light stir to distribute evenly.
Toss in the vibrant fruits: Add the well-drained mandarin oranges and pineapple pieces. These juicy gems deliver the bright tropical heart of the recipe—handle them tenderly so they stay in pretty, whole segments.
Introduce the playful marshmallows: Pour in the miniature marshmallows. They’ll soak up just enough of the creamy dressing as the salad chills, turning soft and fluffy while adding fun pops of sweetness.
Include optional treasures: If you’re using halved maraschino cherries, chopped nuts, or any extra fruits like banana slices, fold them in now. They add beautiful color, crunch, or extra juiciness—mix with love to keep everything intact.
Fold everything together beautifully: Using your spatula, gently fold all the ingredients into the creamy base. Go slowly and patiently—aim for even distribution without breaking up the delicate fruit pieces. The salad should look colorful, fluffy, and inviting.
Taste and perfect it: Give it a quick taste. If you want a touch more sweetness or a hint of citrus brightness, stir in a little extra zest or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Adjust until it sings with tropical harmony.
Chill and let the flavors dance: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours (or overnight). This resting time allows the marshmallows to soften, the fruits to release just enough juice, and all the wonderful flavors to mingle into one irresistible tropical ambrosia. Stir gently before serving in a pretty bowl and enjoy every sunny spoonful!

Notes

This no-cook recipe is naturally gluten-free (check labels on marshmallows and coconut). For a lighter version, use low-fat whipped topping and Greek yogurt. Always drain fruits very well to maintain the perfect creamy consistency. It’s a wonderful make-ahead dish that improves with time in the fridge—ideal for busy hosts or last-minute gatherings.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 252Total Fat 13gSaturated Fat 11gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 1mgSodium 85mgCarbohydrates 32gFiber 4gSugar 27gProtein 3g

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 the canned fruits thoroughly using a fine-mesh strainer and gently press out excess liquid with a spoon or paper towel to prevent a watery salad. Fold ingredients gently with a rubber spatula to keep the fruit pieces intact and maintain that fluffy texture.

For the best flavor, prepare the ambrosia at least 2-4 hours (or up to overnight) before serving so the marshmallows soften slightly and the flavors meld beautifully. If using homemade whipped cream, ensure it’s stiff peaks for better structure.

Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, especially if your fruits vary in ripeness. Serve chilled in a clear glass bowl to showcase the colorful layers, and give it a gentle stir just before serving if it separates a bit.

Ingredients Notes

The star ingredients—canned pineapple tidbits or chunks and mandarin oranges—bring bright, juicy tropical sweetness and a refreshing tang that defines this salad’s sunny personality. Opt for fruit packed in juice rather than heavy syrup to keep the overall sweetness balanced and avoid excess liquid.

Sweetened shredded coconut adds chewy texture and a subtle nutty aroma reminiscent of beachside treats; toast it lightly for deeper flavor if desired. Miniature marshmallows provide soft, pillowy bites that absorb the creamy dressing and add playful sweetness—choose colorful fruit-flavored ones for extra fun or classic white for a more elegant look.

The creamy base, made from whipped topping or a mix of whipped cream and sour cream/Greek yogurt, binds everything together into a light, dreamy consistency without weighing it down.

A touch of vanilla or citrus zest can elevate the notes, while optional add-ins like maraschino cherries bring pops of vibrant color and cherry brightness that complement the pineapple and oranges perfectly.

Variations and Substitutions

Make this Tropical Ambrosia your own by swapping in fresh pineapple or oranges when in season for an even brighter, more vibrant taste—simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and drain well.

For a lighter, tangier version, replace some or all of the whipped topping with plain or vanilla Greek yogurt and a bit of sour cream to add protein and reduce sweetness. Add sliced bananas, halved green grapes, or chopped apples for extra fruit variety and natural crunch that enhances the tropical vibe.

Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty contrast and satisfying texture, or stir in maraschino cherries (halved and well-drained) for bursts of red color and sweet-tart flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut whipped cream and dairy-free marshmallows.

For a more indulgent twist, fold in a spoonful of cream cheese to the dressing for richer creaminess, or experiment with a hint of lime zest and coconut extract to amplify the island flavors. The possibilities are endless while keeping the core sunny essence intact.

Storage Options

Store your Tropical Ambrosia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop nicely during the first day, but stir gently before serving as some separation may occur.

It does not freeze well, as the texture of the marshmallows and cream can become watery or grainy upon thawing. For best results, make it fresh or the night before your event and keep it chilled until serving time. If transporting, nest the bowl in a larger container with ice packs to maintain the perfect cool temperature.