Classic Ambrosia Salad With Coconut and Cool Whip -

This creamy, tangy, and sweet classic Ambrosia salad features flaky coconut, Cool Whip, and tropical fruit, making it the perfect colorful no-bake dessert and vintage side dish!

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Ambrosia dessert with a cherry on top on a striped kitchen towle.

This classic Ambrosia fruit salad with Cool Whip is one of the easiest no-bake desserts for a crowd!

It’s a vintage Southern food favorite that’s bursting with flavor and texture, and it’s a favorite of both kids and adults.

This simple Ambrosia salad recipe features creamy Cool Whip, tangy sour cream, shredded coconut, and tropical fruits like pineapple and mandarin oranges for a flavorful and delicious bite.

It’s great for Easter dessert, an Easter menu side dish, or any warm weather party!

You’ll love this recipe because it’s:

Easy to make: This dump-and-mix recipe requires no baking and zero culinary skills. Anyone can make it, even kids!
Prep-ahead-friendly: This recipe is actually better the next day. Make it up to 24 hours in advance to save time on party day!
Great for a crowd: This recipe makes 10-12 servings, and it can be easily doubled or tripled for more!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Collage of fruit-flavored mini marshmallows and shredded coconut in a bowl.

In a large bowl, mix together 8 oz Cool Whip and ½ cup sour cream, until fully combined.

Gently fold in 2 cups fruit-flavored marshmallows, 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, 20 oz drained pineapple tidbits, and 10 oz drained Maraschino cherries.

Close-up of a fruit salad with marshmallows, fruit, and cool whip.

Once mixed, carefully fold in 11 oz drained mandarin oranges until fully incorporated.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Recipe Tips and Substitutions

Ambrosia salad in a white bowl with a cherry on top over a striped kitchen towel.

Tips and Tricks

Drain all the fruit thoroughly. This prevents a watery or soupy salad.
Gently stir the oranges in last. This keeps them from breaking apart.
Chill for at least 2 hours. This helps the salad set up properly.

Substitutions

Pineapple tidbits: If you can’t find tidbits, you can substitute with the same amount of crushed pineapple, drained through a fine sieve. Or squeeze out the excess juice in a kitchen towel.
Optional add-in: You can add ¾ cups finely chopped pecans for more texture and a nutty flavor.

Serve This With

This recipe pairs well with other Easter recipes like:

A sliced square of Easter egg brownies on white parchment paper.

Clear glasses with a bunny face and marshmallow ears with sprinkles on the rim and Easter decorations.

Homemade Easter Brownies with Mini Eggs
Easter Dessert Bunny Cups
Puff Pastry Spinach Rolls
Strawberry Lemon Flower Cupcakes

FAQs

Vintage marshmallow fruit salad with coconut, Cool Whip, and sour cream.

Can I make ambrosia salad ahead of time?

Yes. Ambrosia salad is very make-ahead friendly. It’s best when made 8–24 hours in advance, which gives the flavors time to meld. Stir gently before serving.

How long does ambrosia salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it will keep well for up to 2 days. After that, the fruit can release excess moisture and the texture may soften.

Is ambrosia salad a dessert or a side dish?

It can be either. Ambrosia salad is often served as a sweet side dish at holidays and potlucks, but it also works as a light dessert.