Southern Ambrosia
The ultimate comfort food, Southern Ambrosia is a creamy fruit salad bursting with flavor. Featuring a delightful combination of fruits, whipped cream, and coconut, it’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, you'll want to add this to your dinner table tonight!
Equipment
- Hand Mixer
- Mixing Bowl
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
Instructions
- 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!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container 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.