Easter Ambrosia Salad: A Classic Recipe with Cool Whip for Your Holiday Feast

Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and indulging in delicious dishes that bring back cherished memories. One such beloved dessert that has stood the test of time is Easter Ambrosia Salad. This creamy, fruity, and marshmallow-filled treat is a staple at holiday potlucks, picnics, and family dinners.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Easter Ambrosia Salad—from the perfect ingredient combinations to expert tips for keeping it fresh and flavorful. Whether you’re a longtime fan of this retro dessert or trying it for the first time, this recipe will ensure your salad is a hit at your Easter table!

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Why You’ll Love This Easter Ambrosia Salad

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why this Easter Ambrosia Salad is a must-make:

✅ Creamy & Dreamy Texture – The combination of Cool Whip and Greek yogurt creates a luscious, fluffy base.
✅ Bursting with Fruity Flavors – Mandarin oranges, pineapple, and maraschino cherries add a sweet-tart balance.
✅ Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – The mini marshmallows and coconut make it irresistible to both kids and adults.
✅ Easy to Make Ahead – Perfect for meal prep, as it needs time to chill before serving.
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Swap ingredients or add nuts for extra crunch!

Now, let’s get into the details of making this classic Easter Ambrosia Salad.

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Easter Ambrosia Salad Recipe with Cool Whip

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Easter Ambrosia Salad:

• 15 oz. Mandarin oranges (drained well)
• 20 oz. pineapple chunks (drained well)
• 12 oz. jar maraschino cherries (drained well, stems removed)
• ¾ cup vanilla Greek yogurt (6 oz. container)
• 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 8 oz. tub Cool Whip (thawed)
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional, for crunch)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Drain the Fruits Thoroughly

The key to a non-watery Easter Ambrosia Salad is ensuring all canned fruits are well-drained.

• Open the mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries.
• Pour them into a colander and let excess liquid drain for a few minutes.
• For extra dryness, pat them gently with a paper towel.

🔹 Pro Tip: Check the cherries for stems—sometimes they sneak into the jar!

2. Combine Fruits & Other Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add:

• Drained mandarin oranges
• Drained pineapple chunks
• Drained maraschino cherries
• Vanilla Greek yogurt
• Shredded coconut
• Mini marshmallows

Gently stir until everything is well-coated.

3. Fold in the Cool Whip

• Add the thawed Cool Whip to the bowl.
• Using a spatula, fold it in gently to maintain a light, airy texture.

🔹 Fun Twist: Try using Birthday Cake or Coconut Cool Whip for a festive flavor boost!

4. Chill Before Serving

• Transfer the mixture to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but 4 hours is ideal for the best texture.

🔹 Make-Ahead Tip: This salad can be made a day in advance—just hold off on adding nuts until serving.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

• Give the salad a quick stir before serving to redistribute any settled juices.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans on top right before serving.
• Serve in individual dessert cups or a large trifle bowl for a beautiful presentation.

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The History and Origins of Ambrosia Salad

Ambrosia salad is a classic American dessert that has been a staple at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family reunions for generations. But where did this creamy, fruity dish originate? The name “ambrosia” comes from Greek mythology, where it referred to the food of the gods, believed to grant immortality. While this salad certainly isn’t mythical, its sweet, refreshing taste has made it a beloved treat for decades.

The earliest versions of ambrosia salad date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the Southern United States. Initially, it was a simple mixture of oranges, coconut, and sugar, often served as a light dessert or side dish. Over time, as ingredients like marshmallows, canned fruits, and whipped cream became more accessible, the recipe evolved into the creamy, fluffy version we know today.

One reason for ambrosia salad’s enduring popularity is its versatility. It can be adjusted based on seasonal ingredients, dietary preferences, or personal taste. Some traditional variations include:

• Southern Ambrosia – Made with fresh citrus, coconut, and sometimes a splash of liquor.
• Midwestern Ambrosia – Features mini marshmallows, Cool Whip, and maraschino cherries.
• Tropical Ambrosia – Includes pineapple, mandarin oranges, and sometimes bananas or kiwi.

The Easter Ambrosia Salad we’re featuring today is a modern twist on the classic, incorporating vanilla Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy, protein-rich boost while keeping the nostalgic flavors intact.

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 Why This Easter Ambrosia Salad Stands Out

Not all ambrosia salads are created equal—some turn out too watery, overly sweet, or lacking texture. So, what makes this Easter Ambrosia Salad the best version? Here’s why this recipe is a standout:

1. Perfect Balance of Creamy and Fruity

Many ambrosia salads rely solely on whipped topping, which can make them overly rich. This recipe uses a combination of Cool Whip and Greek yogurt, adding a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the fruits and marshmallows.

2. No Soggy Salad Here!

A common issue with ambrosia salad is excess liquid from the canned fruits. This recipe emphasizes thoroughly draining the fruits (and even patting them dry) to prevent a watery texture.

3. Kid-Friendly Yet Sophisticated

With mini marshmallows, bright cherries, and juicy oranges, kids adore this dish. But adults appreciate it too, especially when served with toasted coconut or crunchy pecans for added depth.

4. Make-Ahead Convenience

Unlike many desserts that need last-minute prep, this salad tastes even better after chilling. You can make it the night before Easter, freeing up time for other dishes.

5. Customizable for Dietary Needs

• Dairy-free? Use coconut yogurt and dairy-free whipped topping.
• Lower sugar? Opt for unsweetened coconut and sugar-free yogurt.
• Nut-free? Simply omit the pecans or swap for seeds.

This Easter Ambrosia Salad is truly a crowd-pleaser—whether you’re serving it at a formal dinner or a casual backyard gathering.

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 Creative Variations & Serving Ideas for Easter Ambrosia Salad

While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, there are countless ways to customize Easter Ambrosia Salad to match your theme or taste preferences. Here are some fun variations and presentation ideas:

1. Flavor Twists

• Citrus Burst – Add grapefruit segments or lime zest for a tangy kick.
• Tropical Vibes – Mix in diced mango, papaya, or toasted coconut flakes.
• Berry Delight – Fold in fresh strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color.

2. Festive Easter Add-Ins

• Pastel Marshmallows – Use pastel-colored mini marshmallows for a holiday touch.
• White Chocolate Chips – Adds a creamy, decadent twist.
• Edible Flowers – Garnish with pansies or violets for an elegant look.

3. Serving Styles

• Individual Parfaits – Layer the salad in clear glasses with alternating fruit and cream.
• Easter Trifle – Alternate ambrosia salad with layers of pound cake or angel food cake.
• Fruit Salad Bar – Let guests customize their bowls with toppings like nuts, granola, or chocolate shavings.

4. Pairing Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with:

• Savory Easter Dishes – Glazed ham, roasted turkey, or deviled eggs.
• Other Desserts – Lemon bars, carrot cake, or shortbread cookies.
• Brunch Favorites – Quiche, cinnamon rolls, or mimosas.

Expert Tips for the Best Easter Ambrosia Salad

Want to take your Easter Ambrosia Salad to the next level? Try these pro tips:

1. Prevent a Watery Salad

• Drain fruits extremely well—even pat them dry if needed.
• Avoid adding fresh fruits like bananas or apples too early, as they release moisture.

2. Customize Your Ingredients

• Swap the yogurt flavor – Try strawberry or coconut yogurt for a twist.
• Add fresh fruit – Halved grapes, diced kiwi, or berries work well (add just before serving).
• Crunchy toppings – Toasted coconut flakes or walnuts add great texture.

3. Presentation Matters

• Layer the salad in a clear glass bowl to show off the colorful ingredients.
• Garnish with extra cherries or orange slices for a festive touch.

4. Storage & Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• If adding nuts, keep them separate until serving to maintain crunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Canned?

Yes! Fresh mandarins, pineapple, and even pomegranate arils work well. However, fresh fruit may shorten the salad’s shelf life, so serve within 1-2 days.

Can I Make This Dairy-Free?

Absolutely! Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and use dairy-free whipped topping.

Why Is It Called “Ambrosia” Salad?

In Greek mythology, ambrosia was the food of the gods, known for its divine sweetness. This salad lives up to its name with its heavenly mix of fruits and creamy texture!

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Final Thoughts: A Must-Make Easter Dessert

This Easter Ambrosia Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings joy to every bite. With its creamy Cool Whip base, juicy fruits, and fluffy marshmallows, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for your holiday spread.