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This ambrosia salad is a healthier homemade version of this traditional classic! It’s made with fruit, maraschino cherries, coconut yogurt, and shredded coconut.

Ambrosia salad served in glass jars with cherries on top

What is Ambrosia Salad?

Ambrosia salad is a retro dish that was popular in the 1950s-70s that was made with canned fruit like pineapple and oranges, marshmallows, shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, yogurt, and whipped cream. It’s essentially a sweet, creamy fruit salad!

I first had this dish in college and I was in love with it from the start. I’m a huge fan of all things vintage and decided to remake this classic with some more fresh and allergen-friendly ingredients!

The Ingredients Needed for Ambrosia Salad

  • Pineapple and mandarins. The recipe traditionally used canned pineapple, but I’m using fresh to add a bit more freshness to this dish. However, you can totally use canned if you prefer. Just make sure it’s canned in juice and not syrup!
  • Marshmallows. I use Sweet Apricity marshmallows as they are AIP or you can also make your own!
  • Maraschino cherries. I recommend using homemade ones as the storebought ones are filled with extra additives.
  • Shredded coconut.
  • Coconut yogurt. I like this brand.
  • Whipped coconut cream. I like to make my own like this to use.

Ambrosia salad ingredients in bowl ready to be mixed

How to Make Ambrosia Salad

  • Combine all of the ingredients and stir well until the fruit is coated.
  • Chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.
  • Serve topped with extra cherries and enjoy!

How do you serve this recipe? Is it a dessert?

Yes, this recipe is essentially a dessert. I like to serve it in ice cream dishes, or in small bowls. It’s the perfect dish to bring if you’re going to a vintage-themed party, or if you just want to add a retro flair to the menu!

How long can you keep this recipe in the fridge?

This is a great recipe to make the night before a party to share! It stays fresh in the fridge for 1-2 days. You’ll want to serve it chilled, but depending on the coconut cream you use, you may have to let it sit out for a bit in case the cream hardens.

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Ambrosia Salad

★★★★★

5 from 1 reviews
  • Author: Michelle
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 mandarin oranges, segmented
  • 1/3 cup fresh pineapple, diced
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries (plus 2-3 to top)
  • 1/3 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup marshmallows (I use Sweet Apricity)
  • 3/4 cup coconut yogurt (I like this brand)
  • 1/2 cup whipped coconut cream (like this)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients and stir well until the fruit is coated. Allow to chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.
  2. Serve topped with extra cherries.

Notes

All nutritional facts are estimated and will vary.

  • Prep Time: 35 min
  • Category: Treats
  • Method: No Cook

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 229
  • Fat: 7.9g
  • Carbohydrates: 23.2g
  • Fiber: 2.1g
  • Protein: 1.1g

Keywords: ambrosia salad