Ambrosia Salad Recipe with Cool Whip
on May 06, 2026
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This ambrosia salad with Cool Whip recipe checks every box for a simple, springtime dessert. It’s creamy, fruity, fluffy, and comes together in minutes.
Enjoy the nostalgic flavors of sweet pineapple, juicy mandarin oranges, colorful marshmallows, coconut, and cherries in a light, fluffy mixture.
This ambrosia salad recipe is especially great when you need something fast that still feels festive. And if you love fluff salad recipes or need more dessert ideas, stick around because we have many!
Why You’ll Love It
- Ready in just 15 minutes
- No baking requiredNo baking required
- Make-ahead friendly
Ingredients Needed
Here is a preview of what you need to make ambrosia salad. Please see the ingredients and detailed instructions in the recipe card.
Recipe Variations
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
- Stir in seedless grapes for extra freshness
- Use white marshmallows
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for a subtle flavor boost
How to Make Ambrosia Salad with Cool Whip
This easy recipe is really fun to make with kids, and most of the time is spent waiting for the chocolate to set!
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the Cool Whip and sour cream until smooth and fully combined.
Step 2: Fold in the Fruit
Drain and pat the fruit dry. Then, gently fold in the pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, coconut flakes, and cherries. Stir carefully to keep everything fluffy and intact.
Step 3: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps the flavors blend and gives the salad a thicker texture.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top with extra cherries before serving, if desired.
Recipe Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the whipped topping and fruit can change once thawed.
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More Recipe Ideas
Ambrosia Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz Cool Whip
- ½ cup sour cream
- 20 oz pineapple chunks, drained and halved
- 15 oz mandarin oranges, drained
- 1½ cups fruity mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- ⅓ cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
- Extra cherries for topping, optional
Instructions
- Mix Cool Whip and sour cream until smooth.
- Fold in pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, coconut, and cherries.
- Chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Top with additional cherries before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Common Questions
Yes. This ambrosia salad recipe with Cool Whip is perfect for making a few hours ahead or the night before. The flavor improves as it chills.
It balances the sweetness, keeping the ambrosia salad from tasting overly sugary while adding extra creaminess.
You can, but I recommend using a stabilized whipped cream recipe, which holds its texture longer. This is especially helpful if serving at parties and gatherings.
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