This easy and delicious ambrosia salad is a classic sweet treat that combines juicy fruits, mini marshmallows, and a light, creamy vanilla pudding dressing. Featuring mandarins, grapes, pineapple, and strawberries, this fruit salad is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a refreshing snack anytime you crave something sweet!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Takes just minutes to prepare with no baking required.
- Light and Creamy: The vanilla pudding dressing adds a delightful touch of sweetness.
- Versatile: Perfect as a dessert, side dish, or sweet snack.
- Loaded with Fruits: Packed with a variety of fresh, juicy fruits for natural sweetness.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup vanilla pudding (prepared from mix or pre-made)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruits
- Wash and prep all the fruits. Drain any canned fruit thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Slice the grapes, strawberries, and pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
- Add the prepared fruits and mini marshmallows to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled as a dessert or sweet side dish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Coconut Add-In: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
- Healthier Option: Use light pudding mix, low-fat yogurt, and reduce the marshmallows.
- Extra Fruit: Mix in bananas, blueberries, or kiwi for more variety.
- Chocolate Twist: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or drizzle chocolate syrup on top.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the fruits and dressing may lose their texture when thawed.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Add marshmallows just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
2. Can I use whipped cream instead of sour cream?
Yes, whipped cream or Cool Whip can be substituted for a sweeter and fluffier dressing.
3. What’s the best way to prevent the fruit from becoming watery?
Make sure to drain canned fruits thoroughly and pat fresh fruits dry with a paper towel.
4. Can I omit the marshmallows?
Yes, if you prefer a less sweet version, simply leave out the marshmallows.
5. Is this salad suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely! It’s an ideal dish for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
6. Can I use instant pudding mix without making it?
For best results, use prepared pudding. Mixing dry pudding mix directly into the salad can make it grainy.
7. How do I keep bananas from browning if I add them?
Toss banana slices in lemon juice before mixing them into the salad to prevent browning.
8. Can I use frozen fruit?
Frozen fruit can be used, but ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before adding.
9. What can I serve this salad with?
Serve as a dessert, a side dish, or pair it with grilled dishes for a sweet contrast.
10. Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use dairy-free yogurt and pudding, and skip the marshmallows or use vegan marshmallows.
Conclusion
Creamy Ambrosia Salad is the ultimate combination of sweet fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and a luscious vanilla pudding dressing. Simple to make and endlessly versatile, it’s perfect for any occasion—from casual family meals to festive gatherings. Serve it chilled and watch it disappear in no time!
Print
Creamy Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Ambrosia Salad is a sweet and refreshing treat! Combining fresh mandarins, grapes, pineapple, strawberries, mini marshmallows, and a light vanilla pudding cream, it’s a quick and easy fruit salad perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fruits:
- 1 cup mandarin oranges (peeled and segmented)
- 1 cup red or green grapes (halved)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup strawberries (hulled and sliced)
Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk (or pineapple juice for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and milk (or pineapple juice) until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Combine the Fruits:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mandarins, grapes, pineapple chunks, and strawberries. Add the mini marshmallows and shredded coconut, if using.
- Toss with Dressing:
- Pour the creamy dressing over the fruit mixture. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate the ambrosia salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of extra coconut or a few marshmallows on top if desired.
Notes
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the salad before serving.
- This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Substitute the pudding mix with whipped cream or cream cheese for a different texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert, Snack, Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
