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Classic Southern Loaded Ambrosia Salad

Classic Southern Loaded Ambrosia Salad - featured image
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A nostalgic and creamy Southern dessert salad combining marshmallows, canned fruit, nuts, and whipped topping for a sweet, fruity treat perfect for Easter or any family gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 8 oz canned pineapple tidbits, drained
  • 11 oz canned mandarin oranges, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted (optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
  • 1 cup thawed whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional fresh fruit such as sliced bananas or strawberries

Instructions

  1. Drain the canned pineapple tidbits and mandarin oranges thoroughly to avoid watery salad.
  2. Toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned. Set aside to cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, drained pineapple tidbits, and mandarin oranges.
  4. Add the thawed whipped topping, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Fold gently until evenly coated and creamy, avoiding overmixing.
  5. Fold in the toasted nuts and halved maraschino cherries evenly.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4, to let flavors meld and the salad firm up.
  7. Before serving, gently stir to fluff the salad. Optionally garnish with extra cherries or a sprinkle of coconut.

Notes

Drain canned fruit thoroughly to avoid watery salad. Fold gently to keep marshmallows fluffy. Toast nuts for added flavor and crunch. Chill salad for at least 2 hours before serving. For dairy-free version, substitute whipped topping and condensed milk with coconut-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: ambrosia salad, southern dessert, Easter dessert, loaded ambrosia, fruit salad, marshmallow salad, creamy dessert

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/classic-southern-loaded-ambrosia-salad-easy-recipe-for-easter-dessert/