Name: Southern Ambrosia
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup whipping cream; 2 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar; 1/2 cup yogurt (Vanilla yogurt or Greek yogurt); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Use if using Greek yogurt for dressing); 15 ounces mandarin oranges (drained well); 20 ounces pineapple chunks (drained well); 1 cup Maraschino cherries (drained well (optional)); 1 cup sweetened flake coconut; 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional); 1/4 cup roasted pecans (optional)

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There’s something special about making a traditional dish that brings back warm memories, and for me, that dish is Southern Ambrosia. Growing up in a family that loved celebrating every occasion with food, this delightful fruit salad was a regular at our gatherings. I remember the way my grandmother would whip it up with such ease, her hands dancing through the kitchen as she mixed the sweet ingredients. The sheer joy on everyone’s faces when they tasted it made the entire process worth it. This refreshing dessert became synonymous with family reunions, barbecues, and holiday dinners. I cherish the bright colors and the creamy texture that come together in a bowl, making every bite a heavenly experience. If you’re looking to bring a bit of Southern charm to your table, I promise this recipe will do just that!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
Hand Mixer, Mixing Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Southern Ambrosia

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

One of the best things about Southern Ambrosia is how it effortlessly becomes the star of any gathering. Its vibrant colors and sweet flavors draw people in, making it irresistible. I’ve seen friends and family flock to it at parties, often going back for seconds or thirds. The combination of fruits, cream, and coconut creates a harmonious blend that appeals to everyone.

Simple Ingredients

This recipe shines not just in flavor but also in simplicity. You’ll find that the ingredients are easy to locate. With just a few staple items like whipping cream, pineapple, and mandarin oranges, you can create something spectacular without breaking a sweat. It’s a perfect dish for busy cooks!

Versatile and Customizable

Southern Ambrosia allows for creativity. While I love the classic version, you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences. Want to add some nuts for crunch? Go for it! Prefer a different fruit? Swap in your favorites! This versatility makes it a staple on my table, no matter the season.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a holiday feast, or a simple family dinner, Southern Ambrosia fits right in. It adds a touch of sweetness without being overly heavy, making it an ideal dessert any time of year. I often find myself preparing it for potlucks, knowing it will be a hit!

It’s a Make-Ahead Wonder

One of my favorite aspects of this dish is its make-ahead nature. You can prepare it in advance, giving the flavors a chance to meld. This means less stress on the day of your gathering, and who doesn’t love that? Just make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving for that fresh look!

Kid-Friendly

Kids adore Southern Ambrosia! With its bright colors and sweet taste, it’s a surefire way to get them excited about dessert. Whenever I bring it out at family gatherings, I see little faces light up, and I can’t help but smile. It’s a fun way to get kids to enjoy fruit!

Ingredient List for Southern Ambrosia

The ingredients for Southern Ambrosia are a delightful mix that creates an unforgettable flavor profile. Each component plays a critical role in achieving that creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy experience. The whipping cream provides a rich base, while the fresh fruits add sweetness and texture. Together, they create a dish that feels indulgent yet refreshing.

1 cup whipping cream – This creamy base gives the ambrosia its luxurious texture, making every bite feel indulgent.
2 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance the cream and enhance the overall flavor.
1/2 cup yogurt – Whether using vanilla or Greek, it adds a tangy creaminess that elevates the dish.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Just a hint of vanilla to deepen the flavor, especially if you’re using Greek yogurt.
15 ounces mandarin oranges – Bright and juicy, they contribute natural sweetness and a pop of color.
20 ounces pineapple chunks – Sweet and tropical; these chunks balance the creaminess with their juicy texture.
1 cup Maraschino cherries (optional) – For a classic touch and a bit of charm, these cherries add color and sweetness.
1 cup sweetened flake coconut – This adds a delightful chewiness and enhances the flavor of the dish.
1 cup mini marshmallows (optional) – These add a fun texture and extra sweetness, perfect for the kids.
1/4 cup roasted pecans (optional) – A great way to add crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.

Recipe Directions for Southern Ambrosia

Making Southern Ambrosia is a breeze, and you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert ready in no time. Let’s dive into the delicious process!

To begin, gather your ingredients and prepare a large chilled mixing bowl. I find that chilling the bowl beforehand helps the whipping cream whip up faster and achieve a better consistency.
Next, pour in the whipping cream, and using an electric mixer, beat it at medium speed for about 1 to 2 minutes. You’re aiming for a fluffy texture, so keep an eye on it as it starts to thicken.
Once the cream reaches a soft peak, gradually add in the confectioner’s sugar and vanilla extract if using. Continue to whip until you see those glorious stiff peaks forming. The cream should hold its shape beautifully – this is the key to a light and airy ambrosia!
Now it’s time to fold in the yogurt. Gently scoop the yogurt into the whipped cream with a spatula. This step is crucial; you want to maintain the fluffy texture while incorporating the tangy creaminess that makes this dish so special.
Once combined, it’s time to add the star of the show: the fruits! Carefully fold in the drained pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges. Take your time here, ensuring the creamy dressing envelops the fruit evenly without deflating the mixture.
If you’re including them, now is the moment to incorporate the mini marshmallows, sweetened flake coconut, and Maraschino cherries. These ingredients add various textures and flavors that make each bite a delight.
After everything is mixed thoroughly, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ambrosia for at least 30 minutes, though you can let it chill up to 24 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
When you’re ready to serve, give the ambrosia a gentle stir. This will ensure everything is well-distributed and looks fresh. If you like, garnish with extra coconut flakes and a few cherries for that perfect finishing touch.
Finally, scoop the Southern Ambrosia into serving dishes and watch as smiles spread across faces. Enjoy this refreshing dessert on its own or alongside your favorite dishes!

Things Worth Knowing

Chill your bowl: For better whipped cream consistency, chilling the mixing bowl helps the cream hold its shape.
Gentle folding: When combining the whipped cream and yogurt, be careful not to over-mix to keep that airy texture.
Flavor melding: Allowing the ambrosia to chill lets the flavors blend beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Use fresh fruits: Fresh, ripe fruits will elevate the dish, giving it a vibrant, natural sweetness that canned fruits might lack.

Tips and Tricks about Southern Ambrosia

Creating the perfect Southern Ambrosia is all about mastering a few key techniques and understanding how to enhance your dish. Here are some tips to make it even better:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to stir gently before serving.
Make-Ahead: This dessert can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors only get better as they mingle!
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze Southern Ambrosia, as the creamy texture can separate and become grainy once thawed.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a side for a light lunch. It’s versatile enough to serve at various occasions.
Variations: Feel free to switch up the fruits based on what’s in season or what you have on hand for a unique twist.

Perfect Matches for Southern Ambrosia

If you’re wondering how to serve Southern Ambrosia, here are some fantastic ideas:

With Grilled Meats: It’s a refreshing side to balance out rich grilled dishes, perfect for summer barbecues.
At Family Gatherings: Bring it to potlucks and reunions; it’s always a hit, and you’ll be asked for the recipe!
For Brunch: This dish makes a delightful addition to brunch spreads, adding color and sweetness.
Seasonal Feasts: Enjoy it during Thanksgiving or Christmas as a light dessert option that everyone will love.
For a Picnic: Pack it up for an outdoor event; its creamy texture is a great contrast to savory snacks.

FAQ

Southern Ambrosia is a delightful fruit salad that combines whipped cream, yogurt, and a variety of fruits like pineapple and mandarin oranges. It’s typically served as a dessert or side dish, offering a refreshing and creamy treat perfect for any occasion. The dish is known for its vibrant colors and sweet flavors, making it a popular choice at family gatherings and celebrations.

Yes! In fact, Southern Ambrosia is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. When you’re ready to serve, just give it a gentle stir and enjoy!

The beauty of Southern Ambrosia lies in its versatility. While traditional recipes often include pineapple and mandarin oranges, you can mix in your favorite fruits. Consider adding strawberries, peaches, or even grapes for a unique twist. Just ensure that any fruit you use is well-drained to keep the texture creamy and avoid excess liquid.

Absolutely! Southern Ambrosia is a kid-friendly dessert that appeals to younger palates. The bright colors and sweet flavors make it an exciting treat for children. Plus, it’s a fun way to get them to enjoy fruit! Parents can also feel good about offering a dessert that includes nutritious ingredients.

Conclusion

Southern Ambrosia is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. With its creamy texture and vibrant fruits, it brings joy to any table. I encourage you to try making this delightful dish for your next gathering or family meal. You’ll find it’s an easy recipe that will surely impress everyone!