Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe

This Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe is creamy, fruity and perfect for family gatherings. It is sweet, fluffy and full of colorful fruits. Every spoonful tastes light and refreshing. This classic Southern dessert salad is easy to prepare and always crowd-pleasing.

Many people love this Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe because it feels nostalgic and comforting. You will also learn How to make Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe using simple ingredients and quick steps at home.

The Secret Behind This Delicious

The secret behind this recipe is the creamy mixture and juicy fruits. Whipped topping makes the salad fluffy and light.

Sour cream balances the sweetness perfectly. Coconut and marshmallows add fun texture in every bite. Chilling the salad also helps the flavors blend beautifully together before serving.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe
• Servings: 8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 mins
• Course: Dessert Salad
• Cuisine: Southern American
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Serving bowl
• Refrigerator

Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe

• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tub whipped topping
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved
• 1 cup green grapes, sliced
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit

Drain pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges completely. Slice grapes and cherries into smaller pieces for easier serving and texture.

2. Mix the Cream Base

Add sour cream, whipped topping and vanilla extract into a large bowl. Stir gently until smooth and creamy throughout.

3. Add the Marshmallows

Fold mini marshmallows into the creamy mixture carefully. They add sweetness and soft chewy texture to the salad beautifully.

4. Add the Coconut

Mix shredded coconut into the bowl evenly. Coconut gives tropical flavor and extra texture in every delicious spoonful served.

5. Add Pineapple Chunks

Carefully stir pineapple chunks into the salad mixture. Make sure the fruit spreads evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.

6. Add Mandarin Oranges

Fold mandarin oranges gently into the mixture. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the delicate fruit pieces while mixing thoroughly.

7. Add Grapes and Cherries

Mix sliced grapes and maraschino cherries into the bowl. These fruits add color, sweetness and freshness to the salad.

8. Add Pecans

Sprinkle chopped pecans into the mixture. Pecans create crunchy texture and rich nutty flavor throughout the creamy dessert salad.

9. Stir Everything Together

Use a spatula to combine all ingredients carefully. Make sure every ingredient becomes evenly coated with creamy mixture.

10. Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least two hours. Chilling helps the flavors blend beautifully before serving cold.

11. Garnish Before Serving

Top the salad with extra cherries, coconut, or pecans. This makes the dessert look colorful and more inviting.

12. Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the chilled ambrosia salad into serving bowls. Enjoy cold for the best creamy and refreshing dessert experience.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use fresh fruit for brighter flavor.
• Add chopped apples for extra crunch.
• Replace pecans with walnuts if preferred.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Chill overnight for deeper flavor.
• Add bananas right before serving.
• Use rainbow marshmallows for colorful presentation.
• Sprinkle toasted coconut on top for richer taste.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	3 g
Carbohydrates	38 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	29 g
Sodium	95 mg

Serving Suggestions

• This Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe works perfectly for holidays, picnics and summer parties. Serve it cold for the most refreshing flavor and texture.
• Pair this sweet salad with grilled meats or barbecue meals. It also tastes wonderful beside holiday ham or roasted turkey.
• Small dessert cups make this salad look elegant for parties and gatherings.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store leftover ambrosia salad inside an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir gently before serving again.
• Do not freeze this salad because the creamy texture may separate after thawing. Fresh fruit may also become watery later.
• Keep the salad chilled until serving time for the best freshness and flavor.

FAQs about Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe

Can I make ambrosia salad one day ahead?

Yes, this salad tastes even better after chilling overnight. The flavors blend beautifully and the texture becomes creamier.

How to make Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe healthier?

Use low-fat whipped topping, Greek yogurt and less marshmallows. Fresh fruit also adds natural sweetness and freshness.

What are the best Ingredients for Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe?

Marshmallows, whipped topping, pineapple, coconut, cherries and sour cream create the classic sweet and creamy flavor combination.

Can I add other fruits to this recipe?

Yes, strawberries, apples, blueberries or bananas work wonderfully. Add soft fruits carefully to keep texture fresh and balanced.

Why is my ambrosia salad watery?

Fruit may not have been drained properly. Always remove excess juice before mixing to keep the salad creamy and thick.

Conclusion

This Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe is creamy, fruity and perfect for special occasions or family dinners. The colorful fruits and fluffy cream mixture taste amazing together.

You now know How to make Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe step by step. The Ingredients for Paula Deen Ambrosia Salad Recipe are simple and easy to find. Make this sweet Southern dessert salad and enjoy a refreshing homemade treat everyone will love.