Quick 5-Minute Ambrosia Salad

This quick 5-minute Ambrosia Salad recipe combines sweet mandarin oranges, juicy pineapple, maraschino cherries, fluffy marshmallows, and shredded coconut folded into rich whipped cream. It is the ultimate easy, nostalgic dessert or side dish for any occasion!

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 8 oz whipped topping)

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 11 oz can mandarin oranges, thoroughly drained

• 20 oz can pineapple tidbits, thoroughly drained

• 10 oz jar maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry (stems removed, plus a few extra with stems for garnish)

• 1 cup miniature white marshmallows

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions

1. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. (If using pre-made whipped topping, simply scoop it into a large mixing bowl).

2. Prep the Fruit: Ensure the mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, and maraschino cherries are well-drained. Excess liquid will make the salad runny.

3. Combine: Gentle fold the drained oranges, pineapple, cherries, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut into the whipped cream using a rubber spatula until evenly coated.

4. Chill & Serve: Top with a sprinkle of coconut, a few reserved cherries, and serve immediately, or cover and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour to let the flavors meld.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Drain thoroughly: Pat the cherries and pineapple with paper towels to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

• Variations: Swap in sour cream or Greek yogurt for half of the whipped cream if you prefer a slightly tangy finish, or fold in chopped pecans for a cozy crunch.