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

Easter is a time for family gatherings, festive meals, and indulgent desserts. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s both nostalgic and easy to prepare, this Easter Ambrosia Salad is the perfect choice. Made with Cool Whip, marshmallows, and a medley of fruits, this creamy, sweet, and refreshing dessert salad will remind you of the recipes your grandma used to make. Whether you’re hosting a big Easter brunch or simply want a delightful side dish for your holiday table, this Ambrosia Salad recipe is sure to impress.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this classic dessert, share tips for perfecting it, and explore creative variations to make it your own. Plus, we’ll dive into why this Easter Ambrosia Salad is a must-have for your holiday menu.

---

Why You’ll Love This Easter Ambrosia Salad

1. Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: With its sweet flavors and fun mix of fruits and marshmallows, this salad is a hit with both kids and adults.
2. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy holiday hosts.
3. Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this salad hours (or even a day) in advance, allowing you to focus on other Easter dishes.
4. Versatile and Customizable: Add your favorite fruits, nuts, or even flavored Cool Whip to make it uniquely yours.

---

Ingredients for Easter Ambrosia Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic Ambrosia Salad Recipe with Cool Whip:

• 15 oz. Mandarin Oranges (drained well)
• 20 oz. Pineapple Chunks (drained well)
• 12 oz. Jar of Maraschino Cherries (drained well)
• 3/4 cup Vanilla Greek Yogurt (6 oz container)
• 1 cup Shredded Coconut
• 1 cup Mini Marshmallows
• 8 oz. Tub Cool Whip Whipped Topping (thawed)
• Crunchy Pecans (chopped, optional for topping)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation of Fruits

Start by draining the Mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries thoroughly. Removing excess juice is crucial to prevent the salad from becoming watery. Pro tip: Check the cherries for stems, as they sometimes sneak into the jar.

2. Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained Mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries. Add the vanilla Greek yogurt, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows. Mix these ingredients gently but thoroughly until they’re well combined.

3. Incorporating the Whipped Topping

Gently fold in the Cool Whip using a spatula. This step ensures the salad remains light and airy. Be careful not to overmix, as it can deflate the whipped topping.

Optional Tip: For a fun twist, try using flavored Cool Whip, such as Birthday Cake or Strawberry, to add a unique flavor profile to your Easter Ambrosia Salad.

4. Chilling the Salad

Transfer the mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. For the best results, let it chill for up to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to achieve the perfect fluffy texture.

5. Serving the Ambrosia Salad

Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute any settled fruit or whipped topping. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a delightful crunch.

---

 The History of Ambrosia Salad

Ambrosia Salad is a classic dessert that has been a staple at American holiday tables for generations. Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th century, when canned fruits and coconut became more widely available. The name “ambrosia” is derived from Greek mythology, where it referred to the food of the gods, believed to grant immortality. This heavenly name perfectly captures the salad’s sweet, refreshing, and indulgent nature.

Originally, Ambrosia Salad was a simple mixture of oranges and coconut, often sweetened with sugar. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a variety of fruits, marshmallows, and creamy ingredients like whipped cream or Cool Whip. The addition of these ingredients transformed the dish into the fluffy, colorful salad we know and love today.

Ambrosia Salad gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the Southern United States, where it became a must-have at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations. Its ease of preparation and ability to feed a crowd made it a favorite among home cooks. Today, it remains a nostalgic dish that evokes memories of family traditions and festive meals.

The versatility of Ambrosia Salad has also contributed to its enduring appeal. While the classic recipe includes ingredients like pineapple, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries, many variations have emerged over the years. Some versions incorporate nuts for added crunch, while others use flavored yogurt or whipped toppings to create unique twists. Whether served as a dessert or a side dish, Ambrosia Salad continues to bring joy to holiday tables across the country.

---

 Why Ambrosia Salad is Perfect for Easter

Easter is a time for celebration, and no celebration is complete without delicious food. Ambrosia Salad is an ideal addition to your Easter menu for several reasons. First, its bright, cheerful colors—vivid oranges, reds, and whites—mirror the festive spirit of the holiday. The vibrant hues make it a visually appealing dish that adds a pop of color to your table.

Second, Ambrosia Salad’s light and refreshing flavors provide a delightful contrast to the richer dishes typically served at Easter, such as glazed ham, scalloped potatoes, or deviled eggs. The combination of sweet fruits, creamy Cool Whip, and fluffy marshmallows creates a dessert that feels indulgent yet not overly heavy.

Another reason this salad is perfect for Easter is its make-ahead convenience. With so many dishes to prepare for a holiday meal, having a dessert that can be made in advance is a lifesaver. Simply prepare the salad a few hours (or even a day) before your gathering, and let it chill in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your meal while still delivering a crowd-pleasing dessert.

Finally, Ambrosia Salad is a versatile dish that appeals to all ages. Kids love the sweet marshmallows and fruit, while adults appreciate the nostalgic flavors and creamy texture. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or an intimate Easter brunch, this salad is sure to be a hit.

---

 Creative Variations to Try

While the classic Ambrosia Salad recipe is delicious on its own, there are countless ways to customize it to suit your taste or add a unique twist. Here are some creative variations to inspire your next batch:

1. Tropical Ambrosia Salad: Add diced mango, papaya, or kiwi to the mix for a tropical flair. You can also use coconut-flavored yogurt or whipped topping to enhance the island vibe.
2. Berry Bliss Ambrosia: Incorporate fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor. This version is perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
3. Nutty Delight: Swap out the pecans for almonds, walnuts, or pistachios. You can also mix in a handful of your favorite nuts for added crunch and texture.
4. Chocolate Lovers’ Ambrosia: Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle the salad with chocolate syrup for a decadent twist. This variation is perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
5. Citrus Burst: Use a mix of citrus fruits like grapefruit, blood oranges, and tangerines for a tangy, refreshing flavor. This version is especially refreshing during the warmer months.
6. Low-Sugar Option: For a healthier take, use sugar-free yogurt and whipped topping, and opt for fresh fruits instead of canned ones. You can also reduce the amount of marshmallows or use a sugar-free alternative.

Tips for Perfecting Your Easter Ambrosia Salad

1. Toppings for Texture: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts just before serving for a satisfying crunch.
2. Play with Yogurt Flavors: While vanilla yogurt is classic, feel free to experiment with strawberry, cherry, or even coconut-flavored yogurt for a unique twist.
3. Preparation and Timing: For the best taste and texture, prepare the salad at least an hour in advance. Letting it chill for up to 4 hours enhances its fluffiness.
4. Fruit Variations: Incorporate fresh fruits like halved grapes, bananas, or kiwi for added freshness. Just remember to add fresh fruits right before serving to prevent oxidation.
5. Presentation: Serve the salad in individual dessert glasses or bowls, garnished with extra cherries or a sprinkle of coconut for a festive touch.

---

Creative Variations for Your Ambrosia Salad

While this Easter Ambrosia Salad is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste:

• Tropical Twist: Add diced mango, papaya, or passion fruit for a tropical flair.
• Berry Bliss: Mix in fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.
• Nutty Delight: Swap pecans for almonds or walnuts, or mix in a handful of your favorite nuts.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle with chocolate syrup for a decadent twist.

---

Why Ambrosia Salad is Perfect for Easter

Ambrosia Salad has long been a staple at holiday gatherings, and Easter is no exception. Its light, refreshing flavors provide a delightful contrast to richer dishes like ham, scalloped potatoes, or deviled eggs. Plus, its vibrant colors and festive presentation make it a beautiful addition to your Easter table.

This Easter Ambrosia Salad is also incredibly versatile. It can be served as a dessert, a side dish, or even a sweet snack throughout the day. Its make-ahead convenience makes it a stress-free option for busy hosts, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh fruit can be used, but keep in mind that some fruits (like bananas) may oxidize and change color. Add fresh fruits just before serving for the best results.

Is Ambrosia Salad gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used as a substitute. However, Cool Whip provides a more stable texture, especially if the salad needs to sit for a few hours.

---

Save This Recipe for Later

Don’t lose this delicious Easter Ambrosia Salad Recipe! Enter your email below, and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox.

Website
Your Email…
Save This Recipe

---

Print

Final Thoughts

This Easter Ambrosia Salad is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and togetherness. With its creamy Cool Whip base, sweet fruits, and fluffy marshmallows, it’s a dish that brings joy to every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a sweet treat, this salad is sure to become a beloved part of your Easter celebrations.