Dessert: United States – Classic Ambrosia Fruit Salad

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 8

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 0 min

Additional 2 hrs

Total 2 hrs 15 min

Ingredients

1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
1 cup (240 ml) whipped topping, thawed
2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh orange juice (optional)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 / 8 tsp fine salt
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 can (20 oz / 567 g) pineapple tidbits, well drained
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) mandarin oranges, drained gently
1 cup (80 g) sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup (150 g) maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry
1 / 2 cup (60 g) chopped toasted pecans (optional)

Instructions

Prep fruit: drain pineapple and mandarin oranges very well; halve and pat cherries dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture.
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, whipped topping, orange juice (if using), vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Fold in mini marshmallows, pineapple, coconut, cherries, and pecans (if using). Gently fold in mandarin oranges last to avoid breaking them up.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to 24 hours) to chill and allow flavors to meld.
Stir gently before serving. Serve cold; garnish with a sprinkle of coconut or extra pecans if desired.