How to Make Ambrosia Salad
How to Make Ambrosia Salad is a easy Southern United States recipe that serves 8. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by In The Kitchen With Matt on YouTube.
Prep: 53 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 1 hr 3 min
Cost: $10.50 total, $1.31 per serving
Ingredients
- 8 oz Sour Cream (1 cup; can substitute plain or vanilla yogurt or homemade sour cream)
- 8 oz Whipped Topping (Cool Whip or store brand; set out 30 minutes to soften; can substitute homemade whipped cream)
- 16 oz Mandarin Oranges (Canned, drained; about 1 cup; can use fruit cups instead)
- 1 cup Green Grapes (Seedless; halve if large)
- 1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (Use sweetened; unsweetened will be bland)
- 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (Fruity mini marshmallows are traditional)
- 20 oz Pineapple Tidbits (Canned, drained; about 1.5 cups)
- 0.75 cup Maraschino Cherries (Optional; can substitute fresh cherries or other candied fruit)
Instructions
Soften Whipped Topping
Open the 8‑oz container of whipped topping and set it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes so it softens.
Time: PT35M
Combine Dairy Base
Add the 8‑oz sour cream and the softened whipped topping to the large mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and fully incorporated.
Time: PT5M
Drain and Add Mandarin Oranges
Open the 16‑oz can of mandarin oranges, drain well using the colander, and add the fruit to the bowl.
Time: PT3M
Add Grapes
Measure 1 cup of green grapes. If the grapes are large, slice each in half, then add to the bowl.
Time: PT2M
Stir in Shredded Coconut
Add 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the mixture.
Time: PT1M
Add Mini Marshmallows
Fold in 1 cup of fruity mini marshmallows.
Time: PT1M
Add Pineapple Tidbits
Drain 20 oz of canned pineapple tidbits and add them to the bowl.
Time: PT2M
Add Maraschino Cherries
Add about 3/4 cup of maraschino cherries (optional) to the salad.
Time: PT1M
Fold Gently
Using the spatula, gently fold the mixture from the bottom up, being careful not to crush the fruit.
Time: PT3M
Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with its lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 150
- Protein
- 2g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 4g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free
Allergens: Dairy, Gelatin
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Sour Cream: Plain Yogurt, Vanilla Yogurt, Homemade Sour Cream
- Instead of Whipped Topping: Homemade Whipped Cream, Other brand whipped topping
- Instead of Mandarin Oranges: Fresh orange segments, Other canned citrus
- Instead of Green Grapes: Red seedless grapes, Other seedless grapes
- Instead of Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Unsweetened coconut with added sugar, Toasted coconut
- Instead of Mini Marshmallows: Regular mini marshmallows
- Instead of Pineapple Tidbits: Fresh pineapple chunks
- Instead of Maraschino Cherries: Fresh cherries, Candied fruit
Equipment Needed
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Spatula or Large Spoon
- Measuring Cups
- Can Opener
- Colander or Strainer
- Knife (optional)
- Lid or Plastic Wrap (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Softening the whipped topping ensures a smooth dairy base.
- Folding gently to avoid breaking up the fruit.
- Chilling the salad before serving for optimal flavor.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra tropical flair, substitute half of the pineapple with fresh mango chunks.
- A splash of orange juice (about 1 tablespoon) brightens the dressing without making it runny.
- If you prefer a lighter version, use half‑fat sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Troubleshooting
Salad looks watery.
Drain canned fruit thoroughly and pat dry; also ensure the whipped topping is fully softened before mixing.
Marshmallows melt into the dressing.
Add marshmallows after the fruit is combined and fold gently; keep the salad chilled until serving.
Flavor is bland.
Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or a drizzle of honey; using sweetened coconut and ripe canned fruit is key.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture of fruit and marshmallows will degrade.
Room temperature: Do not leave out longer than 2 hours for food safety.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance; keep it covered and chilled.
- Add marshmallows just before serving if you prefer a firmer texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Ambrosia Salad in Southern United States cuisine?
Ambrosia Salad originated in the early 20th century as a celebratory fruit dish in the American South, often served at church potlucks, holiday gatherings, and summer barbecues. Its name references the mythical food of the gods, reflecting the sweet, indulgent nature of the salad.
What are the traditional regional variations of Ambrosia Salad in the Southern United States?
In some Southern regions, the salad includes crushed pineapple and coconut only, while others add chopped pecans, banana slices, or even a splash of rum. Coastal areas may favor fresh citrus over canned mandarin oranges.
How is Ambrosia Salad traditionally served in Southern cuisine?
It is typically served chilled in a large bowl, often topped with a single maraschino cherry for garnish. It appears as a side dish alongside fried chicken, barbecue, or as a sweet finish to a potluck spread.
What occasions or celebrations is Ambrosia Salad traditionally associated with in Southern culture?
Ambrosia Salad is a staple at Fourth of July picnics, Thanksgiving side tables, church socials, and family reunions, especially during the warm months when fresh fruit is abundant.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for Ambrosia Salad versus acceptable substitutes?
The classic version relies on sour cream, whipped topping (or Cool Whip), canned mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, sweetened shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows. Substitutes like plain yogurt for sour cream or fresh fruit for canned versions are acceptable but change the texture slightly.
What other Southern dishes pair well with Ambrosia Salad?
Ambrosia pairs nicely with fried catfish, pulled pork, collard greens, cornbread, and sweet tea, balancing savory, spicy, and salty flavors with its sweet, creamy profile.
What makes Ambrosia Salad special or unique in Southern cuisine?
Its combination of creamy dairy base with bright tropical fruits and marshmallows creates a texture contrast that is both nostalgic and refreshing, making it a signature sweet‑savory side in Southern gatherings.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Ambrosia Salad?
Common errors include over‑mixing which crushes the fruit, using unsweetened coconut which makes the salad bland, and failing to drain canned fruit properly, resulting in a watery dressing.
Why does this Ambrosia Salad recipe use sour cream instead of just yogurt?
Sour cream provides a richer, slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the fruit and marshmallows, while yogurt can be used for a lighter version but changes the traditional mouthfeel.
Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated; add marshmallows just before serving if you prefer them to stay fluffy.
What does the YouTube channel In The Kitchen With Matt specialize in?
The YouTube channel In The Kitchen With Matt focuses on approachable, family‑friendly American comfort food recipes, often highlighting quick, no‑fuss dishes that home cooks can replicate with everyday ingredients.
How does the YouTube channel In The Kitchen With Matt's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Matt emphasizes flexibility—encouraging viewers to adjust ingredient amounts to personal taste—while many other channels stick to precise measurements. He also provides budget‑friendly tips, like using store‑brand whipped topping, making his Southern recipes accessible to a wide audience.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
