Ambrosia Fruit Salad (Sunshine In A Bowl)
Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Ambrosia fruit salad is one of those bright, cheerful dishes that always feels like summer. It is full of fruit, creamy, and easy to make for any family gathering. You can serve it as a side dish or as a sweet treat before the meal.
This recipe is flexible, simple, and perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you want a colorful fruit salad that comes together quickly.
You can also serve fruit and dip for snacking before your meal is done.
TIP: I would suggest that you do not add the bananas or marshmallows until just before you serve it. What happens is the marshmallows will dissolve and the bananas may brown if you don’t dip them in lemon juice.
You can substitute and add a can of drained fruit cocktail in if you prefer.
Ingredients
- Mandarin oranges
- Pineapple
- Strawberries
- Bananas
- Mini marshmallows
- Maraschino cherries
Optional: fresh grapes, drained fruit cocktail
Instructions
Combine the canned fruits and strawberries in a large bowl. Fold in the whipped topping until everything is coated. Add the bananas and marshmallows right before serving so they stay fresh and hold their texture.
Tips for the Best Ambrosia Salad
- Fresh fruit can be used, but canned fruit is traditional and gives the right texture.
- Add bananas and marshmallows right before serving so they don’t dissolve or brown.
- Dip banana slices in lemon juice if you need to prep them early.
- Fruit cocktail works in a pinch if you want a shortcut.
Are Fresh Fruits Used in This Salad
You can use fresh fruit, but ambrosia salad is typically made with canned fruit. Fresh bananas are always used. Fresh strawberries and grapes work well too.
What Fruits Are Used
We use mandarin oranges, pineapple, strawberries, and bananas. Grapes and maraschino cherries are common add‑ins. Fruit cocktail can be used if you want a quick version.
Do You Have To Add Marshmallows
Mini marshmallows add sweetness and help balance the fruit. You can use white or colorful marshmallows. Either works fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make ambrosia salad ahead of time
Yes. Make the base ahead, then add bananas and marshmallows right before serving.
Can I use fresh pineapple
Fresh pineapple works, but canned pineapple gives the classic texture and sweetness.
How long does ambrosia salad last
It keeps for about 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator. Bananas may soften and brown after the first day.
Can I use fruit cocktail
Yes. Drain it well before adding.
Can I add nuts
Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch if you want more texture.
Ambrosia Salad Recipe (Sunshine In A Bowl)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 10.7 ounce cans mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 16 ounce can pineapple tidbits, drained
- 4 bananas chopped into 1/2" slices & sprinkled with lemon juice (so they don't brown
- 1 pound strawberries chopped into pieces
- 16 ounces sour cream
- ½ bag coconut flakes
- ½ bag mini marshmallows (need to be added just before serving)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add the drained oranges, drained pineapple and sour cream and mix until the sour cream dissolves.
- Add the strawberries and mix.
- Add the coconut and bananas and mix.
- Before serving, add the marshmallows and mix. (the marshmallows melt as time passes)
I know this recipe has been around for a while but it came up first when I did a search for Ambrosia Salad. I am wondering if anyone knows what size can of mandarin oranges is used here? Today at the store I saw three different sizes of mandarin oranges. The obvious answer is “however big you like the taste of the oranges.” I am looking for a guideline. I am excited to try this! I am looking forward to trying it with fresh fruit and sour cream vs. the old faithful fruit cocktail and that frozen whipped cream!
How exciting! I see I missed the size cans to use (now fixed). I would suggestion 10.7 oz cans. You are right, the more fruit, the more you make!
I love ambrosia salad but never made it before. Now I have a recipe and will make for sure. Thanks for sharing the recipe.
I love simple recipes as the kids tend to help out and if I can make them quick, less likely to make a mess. 🙂
I am always trying to figure out healthy snacks with fruit besides just plain fruit and this looks absolutely amazing! Thank you so much I will definitely be trying this one out soon!
This is very delicious and a great way to get kids to eat fruit! Enjoy!
This one is different and unexpected. It’s nice to try something new…thanks!
I have only made it twice, but each time I wonder why I don’t make it more often.
I guess it makes it more special.
a d-lish dish!
You are so right.
This really takes me back. My mom used to make this for us kids. I need to dust off this recipe!
Oh great Shannon, you’ll have to make it for our family!
mmm…coconut and bananas, I love that combo.
It is yummy for sure!
I have always wanted to know how to make ambrosia salad! I think I will use coconut yoghurt for the sour cream and maybe toss in some nuts or chia seeds for the marshmallows!
Sounds great. I love that you can customize it to your tastes!
Oh yeah now I know how to make this! Thanks for sharing!
You are welcome, enjoy!
Yum, I lvoe this stuff! Your newest follower from the Blog Hop Socail.
Anissa from Chasing Hailey
Thanks for stopping. This is delicious for sure!
I love ambrosia salad but I’ve never made it myself. Thanks to your post I think I can handle it. For Thanksgiving this year, I call dibs in bringing the ambrosia salad!
It is a great salad for the holidays for sure!
What a great way to make the kids eat fruits. My daughter will love that, as she’s a huge marshmallow fan!
Oh glad to hear she will just love this!