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Pioneer Woman Ambrosia Salad

Pioneer Woman Ambrosia Salad - recipe card
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This ambrosia salad is a luscious, creamy blend of sweet oranges, pineapple, coconut, and marshmallows with a tangy sour cream and whipped cream dressing. It’s a nostalgic side dish or dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent, perfect for potlucks and holiday tables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (11 oz / 312 g) mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1 can (8 oz / 227 g) crushed pineapple, well drained
  • 1 cup miniature marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Drain the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid—this prevents the salad from becoming watery. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, miniature marshmallows, and shredded coconut. Gently toss with a spatula to distribute evenly.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 30 seconds. Set aside.
  4. In a chilled metal or glass bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream. Using a hand mixer on medium-high speed, whip the cream until soft peaks form, about 2-3 minutes. The peaks should just hold their shape when the beaters are lifted.
  5. Fold the whipped cream into the sour cream mixture using a spatula. Use a gentle folding motion—cut down through the center, then sweep along the bottom and up the sides—until no streaks remain. This keeps the mixture light and airy.
  6. Pour the creamy dressing over the fruit-marshmallow mixture. Fold gently with a spatula until every piece is coated, being careful not to crush the oranges.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling allows the marshmallows to soften slightly and the flavors to meld, resulting in a better texture.
  8. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. If using, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top for added crunch. Serve chilled.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may release some liquid upon standing; stir before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze the salad in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, but note that the texture of the fruit and marshmallows will change upon thawing—thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving. Serve extra chilled for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: ambrosia salad, pioneer woman ambrosia, fruit salad, marshmallow salad, coconut salad, orange salad, pineapple salad, no-cook dessert, potluck recipe, holiday side dish, creamy fruit salad

Find it online: https://inspiredbypioneerwoman.com/pioneer-woman-ambrosia-salad/