Hey there, dessert lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a delightful and refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion – Ambrosia Salad. This classic dessert is a medley of creamy goodness, bursting with juicy fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and sweet coconut, all enveloped in a luscious whipped cream and sour cream mixture. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, potluck dinner, or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, this Ambrosia Salad is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, let’s dive into the recipe and create a dessert that’s as heavenly as its name suggests!
Recipe: Ambrosia Salad
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup heavy cream, chilled
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 4 cups mini marshmallows (regular or fruit-flavored)
- 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 11 ounces mandarin oranges, well drained (1 can)
- ¾ cup maraschino cherries, stems removed
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits, well drained
Instructions:
- Prepare Whipped Cream Mixture:
- In a clean, medium-sized bowl, combine the chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Use an electric mixer to beat on high speed until stiff peaks form, resembling the consistency of Cool Whip.
- Incorporate Sour Cream:
- Add the sour cream to the whipped cream mixture and stir until well-combined. This will add a tangy richness to the salad.
- Combine Salad Ingredients:
- In a separate, large bowl, combine the mini marshmallows, sweetened shredded coconut, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries (stems removed), and pineapple tidbits. Stir gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Mix with Cream Mixture:
- Pour the whipped cream and sour cream mixture over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.
- Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy mixture, ensuring everything is well-combined.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl of Ambrosia Salad and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors in every bite!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned fruit?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use fresh fruit such as grapes, strawberries, or peaches for a more vibrant and flavorful salad. Just make sure to adjust the quantities accordingly.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Yes, Ambrosia Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the creamy mixture.
- Is it necessary to drain the canned fruit before adding it to the salad?
- Yes, it’s important to drain the canned fruit well before adding it to the salad to prevent excess liquid from watering down the creamy mixture.
- Can I customize the ingredients to suit my taste preferences?
- Absolutely! Ambrosia Salad is highly customizable, so feel free to add or omit ingredients according to your liking. You can also adjust the sweetness of the salad by adding more or less powdered sugar to the whipped cream mixture.
Tips:
- Chill Ingredients Before Mixing: For the best results, chill the heavy cream, sour cream, and canned fruit in the refrigerator before mixing. This will help the salad stay cold and refreshing.
- Fold Gently: When mixing the salad ingredients with the cream mixture, use a gentle folding motion to avoid crushing the marshmallows and fruits. This will help maintain the salad’s fluffy texture.
- Serve in Chilled Bowls: To keep the Ambrosia Salad chilled for longer during serving, serve it in bowls that have been chilled in the refrigerator beforehand.
- Garnish Before Serving: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the top of the Ambrosia Salad with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a few extra maraschino cherries just before serving.
With this Ambrosia Salad recipe, you’ll create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also a delightful addition to any gathering or celebration. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a taste of paradise!
