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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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